This offseason, the Chicago White Sox have made a habit of signing free-agent players to one-year deals under $2 million. However, they broke that trend to secure veteran starting pitcher Martín Pérez, who agreed to a one-year contract worth $3.5 million. The deal also includes a $10 million mutual option for 2026 with a $1.5 million buyout, effectively making it a $5 million commitment. If Pérez performs well, he is expected to test free agency again after this season.
Additionally, Pérez’s strong performance could make him a trade candidate before the midseason deadline, a scenario that unfolded last year. In 2024, Pérez was traded from the Pittsburgh Pirates to the San Diego Padres midseason.
While Pérez will not replace Garrett Crochet’s ace-level production, he adds a left-handed presence to the White Sox rotation. The 13-year veteran brings experience and durability, having pitched 1575.2 innings in his career, including 269 starts. His standout season came in 2022, when he was named an All-Star, posting a career-best 2.89 ERA, a 3.59 FIP, and a 3.9 fWAR.
Last year, Pérez had a 4.45 ERA while earning a World Series ring with the Texas Rangers, pitching as a reliever in both the ALCS and World Series. He struggled with the Pirates, recording a 5.20 ERA, but rebounded with the Padres, posting a 3.46 ERA across 10 starts. Although he did not pitch in the postseason, Pérez’s ability to eat innings makes him a valuable addition to the White Sox’s rotation.
