As Spring Training approaches, the baseball world is abuzz with predictions for the 2026 White Sox starting lineup. But here’s the part that’s raising eyebrows: Lenyn Sosa, the team’s leading home run hitter from 2025, is conspicuously absent from nearly every projected roster. Sure, he might be penciled in as a bench player, but where does that leave his future? Let’s dive into the perplexing case of Sosa’s sudden disappearance from the spotlight.
In years past, Sosa’s absence would’ve been a no-brainer. His defensive struggles were legendary, and his bat was, well, underwhelming. But 2025 was a different story. Not only did he lead the Sox with 22 home runs, but he also batted a respectable .264—nearly 20 points above both the MLB average and his own career mark. Talk about a turnaround!
But here’s where it gets controversial: Despite these improvements, Sosa’s infield spot seems in jeopardy with the addition of Munetaka Murakami at first base. Yes, Sosa played more games at second base (99 vs. 42 at first), but his defense remains a glaring weakness. Remember that 2020 scouting report claiming his “instincts should help him make plays”? Anyone who’s watched Sosa knows that report must’ve been written by someone who’d never seen him in action. His baseball instincts are, to put it kindly, questionable.
Murakami isn’t exactly a defensive standout either, but if he lives up to his offensive potential—especially against faster pitches—his bat could more than make up for any fielding lapses. Sosa, unfortunately, doesn’t offer that kind of upside.
And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about defense. Sosa’s on-base skills are equally concerning. In 2025, he drew just 18 walks in 544 plate appearances—fewer than one every 30 trips to the plate, the second-worst rate in the MLB. His career numbers aren’t much better, with only 36 walks in 1,122 plate appearances. While his chase rate improved slightly last season, it was still in the bottom 3% of the league. Even his clutch hitting leaves much to be desired, with a career .419 OPS in late and close situations. Ouch.
So, what’s next for Sosa? He’s out of options, so stashing him in the minors isn’t a simple solution. A waiver claim from another team eyeing his 2025 HR numbers isn’t out of the question, but trade value seems low. Chris Getz’s recent comments about “redundancy with right-handed corner bats” didn’t exactly boost Sosa’s case, especially since Murakami bats lefty. Bench time appears inevitable, and it could get worse if Luisangel Acuña shifts to second base, pushing Chase Meidroth ahead of Sosa.
Here’s the burning question: Is Sosa’s 2025 breakout a fluke, or is there untapped potential worth salvaging? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments. Is he worth another chance, or is it time to move on? Sosa’s future may be uncertain, but one thing’s clear: his story isn’t over yet—at least not for now.
