The Chicago White Sox have signed infielder to a minor league deal that includes an invitation to major league spring training. According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, Hec will earn $1.25 million if he makes the majors, with an additional $500,000 in performance incentives. The deal also allows Him, represented by CAA Sports, to opt out in June or July if he isn’t on the MLB roster.
Turning 30 in June, He joins a new team for the first time in his career. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2016, he played parts of five seasons with the team at the major league level. Known for his power but hindered by a high strikeout rate, He has hit 47 home runs in 1,044 MLB plate appearances but struck out 36.8% of the time.
His strikeout issues have worsened recently, jumping to 48.6% in 146 plate appearances over the past two seasons. After being outrighted off Boston’s roster in September, Dalbec elected free agency.
The White Sox offer a promising opportunity for Him, as their roster lacks depth and stability. While Dalbec has primarily played first base, he has also spent time at third base, middle infield, and right field.
Chicago, coming off its worst season in modern history, has uncertainties across its lineup. Andrew Vaughn remains the first baseman but has seen his production decline over the last two years and may be traded due to arbitration eligibility through 2026.
The White Sox have added several veterans, including Josh Rojas, Mike Tauchman, and Austin Slater, but these players could be traded or released as the season progresses. Additionally, prospects like Miguel Vargas, Bryan Ramos, and Colson Montgomery are expected to see playing time but have yet to establish themselves in the majors.
Despite his struggles in the majors, Dalbec has been productive in Triple-A, posting a .260/.358/.523 slash line with 58 home runs over the past three seasons, alongside a 34.6% strikeout rate and an 11.8% walk rate, resulting in a 121 wRC+. If he can translate some of that success to the majors, the White Sox could retain him beyond 2025 with less than three years of service time. However, as Dalbec is out of minor league options, maintaining a roster spot may be challenging.
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