Detroit Tigers: AL Central offseason roundup: November

Chicago White Sox (81-81 in 2022)

It's really tough to choose which team had a more disappointing 2022 season, but it just might be the White Sox. After winning the division in 2021, many people predicted them to repeat and possibly make a run at the World Series. It's safe to say things didn't go as planned for the ChiSox.

They also spent a lot of time on the IL, with C Yasmani Grandal, SS Tim Anderson, and OF Eloy Jimenez among the players that had their seasons cut short due to injuries. Combine that with a manager that probably should have been in a retirement home instead of being in a major league dugout, and you have the recipe for a disappointing season.

It wasn't all bad. Dylan Cease had a breakout season, finishing with a 2.20 ERA while striking out 11.1 batters per nine innings. But this White Sox team woefully underachieved this season.

Tony La Russa stepped down due to health concerns at the end of the season, so the White Sox had to find a new manager for the second time in three years. They ended up landing former Royals' bench coach Pedro Grifol. Whether that proves to be the right move, we'll find out in time.

There hasn't been much in terms of roster churn yet for the Sox. They non-tendered OFs Adam Engel and Mark Payton, as well as INF Danny Mendick. They will be looking to add an outfielder and a second baseman this offseason. However, it sounds like they'll be doing this via trade as opposed to free agency as owner Jerry Reinsdorf is seeking to limit the team's payroll. They'll also look to replace longtime 1B/DH Jose Abreu, who has signed with the Houston Astros.

They signed SP Mike Clevinger to a one-year, $12 million deal on Nov. 27. That's an interesting signing considering what we just established: the White Sox aren't looking to add to their payroll. Don't be shocked if they trade someone like SP Lance Lynn as they try to get that number down.