White Sox could pass on Harrison Bader to give Luisangel Acuña a RUNWAY to shine in center

The Chicago White Sox could face a pivotal crossroads as the front office prioritizes Luisangel Acuña’s development over signing free agent outfielder Harrison Bader. Can Acuña, with his elite speed and versatile defense, fill the void left by Luis Robert Jr.—or will the Sox regret missing out on proven right-handed veteran hitting center fielder like Bader?

Host Todd Welter analyzes why GM Chris Getz is clearing a "runway" for Acuña, tying it to the team’s strategy and recent roster moves.

Key discussion points include Bader’s potential value against right-handed pitching, White Sox salary flexibility post-Robert Jr. trade, and comparisons to Milwaukee’s recent haul for All-Star pitcher Freddy Peralta. With skepticism swirling over the trade return, and Acuña’s MLB readiness under the spotlight, the White Sox’s future hinges on unlocking their new talent’s potential. Will this bold youth movement set the stage for long-term success or deepen rebuilding frustrations on the South Side?

0:00 – White Sox Free Agency & Bader/Acuna "Runway"
Todd Welter opens the show discussing the dwindling options in free agency for the White Sox, potential value in signing Harrison Bader, and why the team may prioritize giving Luisangel Acuna a clear runway over adding Bader.

3:01 – Getz on Free Agency Plans & Acuna’s Role
Features Speaker B (Chris Getz) offering insight into the club’s open-minded approach for the newly available financial resources, the desire to provide Acuna with major league opportunity, and analysis from Todd Welter about how the current roster construction impacts the outfield and utility roles.

11:37 – Acuna vs. Robert Jr. Analysis & Trade Value Revisited
In-depth breakdown by Todd Welter comparing Acuna’s skillset and upside to Luis Robert Jr., his fit with the White Sox, and extensive analysis of trade value—comparing the White Sox’s return to recent Mets-Brewers trade packages and discussing opinions on whether the Sox could have gotten more.

Chris Getz audio courtesy of the Chicago White Sox

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