Locked On White Sox - Daily Podcast On The Chicago White Sox

Latest Episodes:

Chicago White Sox NEED a lot of BREAKOUT performances in 2026 to IGNITE Future Hopes Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

The Chicago White Sox face a pivotal 2026 season—can more than one young player break out and rescue the rebuild? Host Todd Welter unpacks why the team can’t rely solely on Kyle Teel and spotlights the pressing need for Colson Montgomery, Munetaka Murakami, Edgar Quero, and Shane Smith to deliver elite performances. The conversation gets granular with insights from SoxMachine’s James Fegan recent work, highlighting specific areas for improvement, from Montgomery’s chase rate to Murakami’s in-zone contact and Sean Burke’s slider movement.

With Baseball America projecting the White Sox could soon boast MLB’s top farm system, Todd Welter also examines how the 2026 MLB Draft and potential trades—like a Luis Robert Jr. deal—could rapidly boost prospect value. Can Chicago sustain multiple prospect waves and finally break free from its cycle of stalled rebuilds? This high-energy episode is essential listening for fans hungry for hope, strategy, and hard-hitting baseball analysis.

0:00 – Young White Sox Breakouts Needed
Todd Welter opens the show by discussing the importance of multiple breakout performances from the White Sox young players in 2026 for the team's rebuild hopes. He highlights key names, needed improvements, and why internal progression is make-or-break for the team's future.

10:55 – Key Player Improvement Metrics
Todd Welter breaks down a recent piece by James Fegan of SoxMachine.com on specific areas where young White Sox players need to improve, emphasizing advanced stats, development strategies, and the role of new coaches in driving player progression at the MLB level.

19:59 – White Sox Farm System Outlook
Todd Welter examines Baseball America’s suggestion that the White Sox could have the top farm system in 2027. He details the logic behind the projection, draft position value, and how accumulating high-ceiling prospects could sustain the team’s competitive window.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.
Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Rocket Money
Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Every Friday night, before the games tip off, FanDuel gives fans a new way to kick off the weekend with NBA Happy Hour. Check the FanDuel app and see what’s dropping during NBA Happy Hour — every Friday from 6 to 7:30 PM Eastern.FanDuel — the Official Sportsbook Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

4 hunches on why the Chicago White Sox failed to LAND Japanese star pitcher Tatsuya Imai Jan 02, 2026

Show notes

The Chicago White Sox miss out on Tatsuya Imai as the Houston Astros land the Japanese pitching star—was it ownership penny-pinching or Scott Boras's influence?

The Imai sweepstakes spotlight payroll limitations under Jerry Reinsdorf, agent dynamics, and the challenge of luring elite talent to the South Side. Insightful analysis uncovers why the Munetaka Murakami signing was the exception, not the rule, and how opt-outs, AAV, and market competitiveness shaped the outcome.

Host Todd Welter explores the financial ramifications of missing Imai, the business of expanding into Japan, and how the Sox’s rebuild might hinge on future ownership. Debates over retaining Jordan Leasure heat up, as advanced stats signal a potential closer breakout. Fan poll results reveal hope and frustration—will the White Sox ever operate like a big-market club, or is cautious optimism all fans can rely on?

0:00 – White Sox Miss Out on Imai
[Reasoning, ownership, and agent influence on Tatsuya Imai signing with Astros. Four main "hunches" for Sox losing out; business implications for Chicago.]

10:03 – Jordan Leasure Trade Debate
[Analysis of potential Athletics trade for Jordan Leisure. Breaks down his second-half improvements, role potential, and why keeping him may be better for the Sox.]

19:03 – Fan Poll & Sox Optimism
[Fan expectations/hopes on Imai, the reality of Sox ownership, poll results, and reflections on future team building and shortfalls.]

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The White Sox boldly CHASE Tatsuya Imai despite being considered a LONGSHOT to sign the ace hurler Dec 31, 2025

Show notes

Chicago White Sox set their sights high with a bold pursuit of Japanese pitching star Tatsuya Imai. Could a market-savvy gamble finally bring elite talent to the South Side?

Host Todd Welter explores the implications of chasing Imai, Munetaka a Murakami’s impact, and the club’s evolving strategy under GM Chris Getz. Is the front office still just leverage for agents, or are they ready to attract top-tier talent to Rate Field?

Jarred Kelenic joins the White Sox on a minor league deal, raising questions about former top prospects reviving their careers. Key insights include the competition for outfield spots, missed opportunities on Pete Alonso and Kyle Schwarber, and how Chicago’s calculated risks signal a new approach. Plus, a nostalgic look back at Shingo Takatsu’s magical 2004 closer run reminds fans of what ambitious roster moves can achieve. Could 2026 be the year multiple breakout stars emerge for the White Sox?

0:00 – White Sox Pursue Tatsuya Imai

Introduction and overview of the White Sox aiming high by targeting Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai. Includes discussion of franchise ambition, market approach, and organizational change.

11:33 – Jarred Kelenic Signs, Prospect Discussion

Segment shifts to analyzing the White Sox’s minor league deal with Jared Kelnick. Covers prospect profiles, outfield competition, and franchise strategy with former top prospects.

19:41 – Shingo Takatsu Way Back Wednesday

"Way Back Wednesday" historical segment on Shingo Takatsu’s MLB career with the White Sox, memories of his time as closer, and connections to current Japanese players and management.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The White Sox are reportedly PURSUING Japanese ace Tatsuya Imai in another bold free agent MOVE Dec 30, 2025

Show notes

Chicago White Sox ignite the international market, pushing to sign Japanese pitching sensation Tatsuya Imai after landing Munetaka Murakami. Could bold short-term deals for top Japanese stars change the South Siders’ trajectory?

Host Todd Welter analyzes the White Sox’s aggressive moves, breaking down Imai’s electric arsenal—drawing comparisons to Luis Castillo and Max Scherzer—and what his arrival could mean for the rotation. The discussion highlights the stubborn ownership’s reluctance to spend, the franchise’s status as the only MLB club yet to break the $80 million threshold, and fan reactions to the possible decisions regarding Yoán Moncada and Miguel Vargas. Key topics include future investments in Colson Montgomery, the business case for opening the pipeline to Japanese talent, and whether Chicago will finally pay to keep its homegrown stars. Can the White Sox transform short-term risks into long-term success?

0:00 – White Sox Targeting Tatsuya Imai
Todd Welter discusses the White Sox's pursuit of Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, recent rumors from Japan, the team's track record with Japanese players, and the potential impact on the roster and organization strategy.

10:51 – White Sox Contract Spending History
Todd Welter analyzes the White Sox's record-low spending on contracts, compares it to other MLB franchises, and emphasizes the necessity for the team to pay to retain core players as they rebuild.

20:11 – Fan Mailbag: Moncada Reaction
Todd Welter addresses fan mail and comments about the potential return of Yoan Moncada, the overwhelmingly negative response from fans, and thoughts on Miguel Vargas and team roster decisions.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's a TERRIBLE idea for the White Sox to CHASE a reunion with Yoan Moncada Dec 30, 2025

Show notes

The Chicago White Sox risk repeating past mistakes by considering a Yoán Moncada reunion. Is bringing back the oft-injured third baseman the franchise’s worst offseason move yet? Todd Welter scrutinizes Moncada’s declining performance, questionable work ethic, and injury history, contrasting him with rising option Miguel Vargas and the team’s prospects at third base.

The discussion spotlights why the Moncada rumors could derail the club’s “change” narrative and why fresh faces deserve the South Side spotlight.

Key topics include updated White Sox prospect rankings, with Caleb Bonemer emerging as a franchise cornerstone, and a breakdown of failed trade negotiations involving Luis Robert Jr. and the Cincinnati Reds.

0:00 – Yoan Moncada Reunion Rumor Rejected

Todd Welter opens the show discussing the report of the White Sox considering a reunion with Yoan Moncada. He outlines why he believes this is the worst idea of the offseason, referencing Moncada's injury history, work ethic concerns, defensive decline, and why Miguel Vargas is a better third base option for now.

0:09:40 – Luis Robert Jr. Trade Discussions

The conversation shifts to Luis Robert Jr. and the recent rumors about a potential trade involving the Cincinnati Reds. Todd Welter explains why he doesn’t blame the White Sox for not pulling the trigger, discusses the value (or lack thereof) in rumored deals, and makes the case for keeping Robert—at least until a more appealing offer for pitching is available.

20:06 – Minor League Prospect Rankings

Todd Welter transitions to "Minor League Monday," analyzing the latest White Sox top prospect rankings from Fangraphs and comparing these to MLB Pipeline. He makes the case for Caleb Bonemer as the organization’s top prospect and highlights major differences and key players to watch in the system.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The White Sox Should TARGET Recently DFA’d Talent Over Signing a Veteran in Right Field Dec 27, 2025

Show notes

The Chicago White Sox should set their sights on upside, targeting recently designated-for-assignment young talent instead of established veterans for their right field dilemma. Could former top prospects like Jhonkensy Noel, Joey Weimer, or Justyn-Henry Malloy rejuvenate the lineup and spark internal development in 2025?

Host Todd Welter breaks down why the White Sox should avoid typical veteran additions like Austin Hays or Max Kepler, and instead gamble on young, high-ceiling bats amid MLB’s waiver limbo.

Fan Poll Friday and listener mailbag segments tackle fan reactions to the Munetaka Murakami signing, the potential fate of Luis Robert Jr., and the optimal role for Sean Newcomb in the bullpen.

0:00 – Sox Right Field Options

Host Todd Welter discusses why the White Sox should target young players designated for assignment (DFA), like Jhonkensy Noel, Joey Weimer, or Justyn-Henry Malloy, instead of going with veteran right fielders for next season. He weighs the pros and cons of taking flyers on former top prospects versus signing established veterans like Austin Hays or Max Kepler.

10:03 – Fan Poll Results

Host Todd Welter reviews this week's fan poll results, including reactions to the Munetaka Murakami signing, preferences for high-upside signings over productive veterans, and the optimal role for Sean Newcomb. He also addresses a mailbag comment, debates the value of singles versus walks, and discusses team-building philosophies.

21:04 – Listener Mailbag

Host Todd Welter tackles a range of listener questions and comments, focusing on the Luis Robert Jr. trade debate, possible outfield acquisitions, reactions to the Murakami deal, and statistical analysis like FIP vs. ERA for pitchers. He gives context for differing opinions on organizational strategy and roster construction.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

White Sox PRIORITIZED Munetaka Murakami and DITCHED pursuing Ryan O’Hearn for POWERFUL Lineup Upside Dec 24, 2025

Show notes

Chicago White Sox land Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, raising the team’s ceiling and igniting hopes for a brighter future. Can his superstar potential revitalize the White Sox offense, or would steady veteran options like Ryan O’Hearn have proven to be safer bets for other clubs?

Host Todd Welter weighs the risks and rewards, spotlighting the front office’s bold strategy and what Murakami’s arrival means for the lineup’s power, marketability, and long-term roster building.

Luis Robert Jr. trade rumors swirl as the Reds and Mets enter the mix. Welter explores the prospects the White Sox might receive—Chase Petty, Julian Aguiar, and Brandon Williamson—and how their pitching talent could reshape Chicago’s rotation. The episode also spotlights the signing of reliever Sean Newcomb, recent bullpen moves, and fan reactions, all while questioning whether high-upside swings or dependable veterans set the White Sox up for sustained success.

0:00 — Murakami vs. O’Hearn Signing Overview: Discusses the White Sox's signing of Munetaka Murakami versus the Pirates landing Ryan O'Hearn. Host Todd Welter breaks down the Sox's decision to go for higher upside and the implications for the rebuild.

10:00 — Luis Robert Jr. to Reds Trade Rumors Overview: Deep dive into the increasing trade rumors surrounding Luis Robert Jr., especially the possible deal with the Cincinnati Reds. Breakdown of potential pitching prospects involved and the reasoning behind a possible trade.

20:09 — Sean Newcomb Addition Overview: Analysis of the White Sox signing Sean Newcomb, potential fit as starter vs. reliever, and strategy on bullpen flexibility. Includes quick rundown of in-house options for rotation and bullpen roles.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What the White Sox GAIN By Betting on Japanese Superstar Munetaka Murakami’s POWER Dec 23, 2025

Show notes

Chicago White Sox make a bold move by signing Munetaka Murakami, aiming to inject power and excitement into a struggling lineup. Is this high-upside gamble the spark for a new era on the South Side? Host Todd Welter and OnTapSportsNet.com's Besnik Zekiri discuss whether Murakami’s massive power—reminiscent of Kyle Schwarber and Aaron Judge—will translate from Japan to MLB, and weigh the risk of boom-or-bust outcomes.

They also break down the potential impact on Lenyn Sosa, Miguel Vargas, and other young talents as roster spots tighten and the Sox navigate a competitive rebuild.

Key discussion points include the challenges of developing prospects like Colson Montgomery, Kyle Teel, and Edgar Quero, the ongoing Luis Robert Jr. trade rumors, and the strategic direction under GM Chris Getz. With an international star, a #1 draft pick looming, and offseason moves stirring hope, can the White Sox shift from perennial disappointment to "fun bad"—or is guarded optimism still the safest bet for fans?

0:00 — Murakami Signing Risk & Upside
Discussion led by Todd Welter and Besnik Zekiri about the calculated risk the White Sox are taking with Munetaka Murakami, his player profile, MLB projections, and international significance.

10:35 — Murakami’s Impact on Roster
Segment focuses on the signing’s effect on current roster players like Lenyn Sosa, Miguel Vargas, positional battles, and speculation about potential trades or role changes.

22:21 — Cautious Optimism & Future Moves
Conversation centers on the guarded hope for the White Sox’s direction, remaining offseason needs, prospects, and long-term franchise strategies.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why the White Sox must MOVE Luis Robert Jr. for pitching NOW as the trade rumors will not stop Dec 22, 2025

Show notes

The Chicago White Sox face a pivotal crossroads as trading Luis Robert Jr. emerges as the franchise’s last, best shot to revitalize the roster for 2026 and beyond. Host Todd Welter unpacks Bob Nightingale’s report linking Robert to the Mets and Reds for pitching depth, raising tough questions—should fans embrace major change or hope for a healthy Robert to ignite an up-and-coming lineup featuring Munetaka Murakami, Colson Montgomery, and Kyle Teel?

Host Todd Welter highlights the new coaching staff’s focus on defined roles, player development, and maximizing prospects, with insights from Chicago beat writers. The analysis spotlights high-upside signings, impending budget limitations, and the White Sox’s evolving rebuild strategy. With optimism sparked by the Murakami signing and a top draft pick, can Chicago fans finally dream again, or is more upheaval on the horizon?

0:00 – White Sox Rebuild & LRJ Trade Rumors
Todd Welter opens with the argument that trading Luis Robert Jr. (LRJ) is the only significant route left for the White Sox to upgrade their 2026 roster. He breaks down the Bob Nightingale report, discusses the limits of the club’s budget after the Murakami signing, and why pitching depth in a trade is now key. He also weighs the pros and cons of moving LRJ, given his value and Scott Boras representation.

10:12 – Murakami Signing & Fan Optimism
Todd Welter reflects on the White Sox landing Munetaka Murakami, the hope this generates for fans, and why it “feels weird” for the team to have nice things happen. He talks about the potential risk (swing and miss issues, draft busts), the new draft pick’s upside, and a shift in organizational approach—emphasizing taking swings at high-ceiling talent.

20:57 – Coaching Staff Overhaul & Player Development
The last segment covers the new-look coaching staff, highlighting defined coaching roles, a specific focus on player development at the big league level, insights from Chicago beat writers, and how this organizational reset could maximize young talent, base running, and game planning in the margins.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chicago White Sox LAND Japanese Superstar Munetaka Murakami in GIANT Move! Dec 21, 2025

Show notes

Chicago White Sox shock the baseball world by signing Japanese superstar Munetaka Murakami, reigniting hope for the South Side faithful. Can Murakami’s prodigious power transform a rebuilding roster and set the stage for another Jose Abreu-esque era at Guaranteed Rate Field?

Todd Welter breaks down the historic two-year, $34 million deal, detailing why the White Sox outmaneuvered rivals like the Angels and Padres in the free agent sweepstakes. Key topics include Murakami’s fit in the lineup alongside Colson Montgomery and Kyle Teel, questions about his defensive position, and how this move reopens the Japanese talent pipeline. Insights on potential lineups, the impact on prospects like Lenyn Sosa and Miguel Vargas, and future payroll concerns keep Sox Nation buzzing. Will this bold signing fast-track the White Sox’s rebuild or carry boom-or-bust risks for the club’s future?

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.