The Chicago White Sox made a minor move by acquiring catcher Matt Thaiss from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for cash considerations. This trade is a small step to enhance the White Sox’s catching depth, especially as the team had an open spot on its 40-man roster, eliminating the need for any other roster adjustments. Thaiss, who was originally acquired by the Cubs from the Los Angeles Angels, was expected to serve as the backup catcher behind Miguel Amaya. However, after the Cubs signed Carson Kelly to a two-year deal, it became clear that Thaiss would no longer have a spot on the roster.
Thaiss, a 29-year-old former first-round pick, has spent his entire career with the Angels before joining the Cubs. He has a career batting line of .208/.313/.342 with 23 doubles, 22 home runs, and 79 RBIs in 138 hits. Despite his potential, Thaiss has struggled both offensively and defensively, failing to meet expectations. Defensively, his pop time of 2.01 seconds ranks in the 17th percentile, and he has a caught-stealing percentage of just 14.8%. Additionally, while Thaiss can also play first and third base, he has primarily been used as a catcher. With the Cubs needing help at third base but Thaiss not proving effective at the plate or defensively, his role became uncertain, leading to the trade.
For the White Sox, this move gives Thaiss a chance to compete for a spot on the major league roster. Currently, Korey Lee is expected to be the starting catcher, with Chuckie Robinson as the backup. Lee’s performance has been below expectations, having hit just .210/.244/.347 in 125 games last year, leaving an opening for competition at the position. Thaiss, known for his versatility, could potentially challenge Robinson for the backup role. However, the White Sox’s second-ranked prospect, Kyle Teel, who was acquired in the Garrett Crochet trade, could be another hurdle for Thaiss. Teel has the potential to be a future star, and his participation in Spring Training adds further competition.
Ultimately, the White Sox didn’t give up much to acquire Thaiss, and the trade provides depth to the catching position. Thaiss will need to prove himself in Spring Training to secure a spot on the roster, but if he doesn’t make the cut, he could be waived and become a free agent. The positional battle at catcher will be one to watch closely in the upcoming spring.
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