White Sox Designate Wikelman Gonzalez For Assignment

Key Points:

• The White Sox have promoted pitching prospects Hagen Smith and Tanner McDougal to their 26-man roster, while optioning Noah Schultz and David Sandlin to Triple-A, and designated Wikelman Gonzalez for assignment to clear a 40-man roster spot.
• Gonzalez, acquired from the Red Sox in the Garrett Crochet trade, had a promising MLB debut in 2025 with a 2.66 ERA and a 28.7% strikeout rate over 20 1/3 innings but has struggled significantly in 2026.
• After spending time on the injured list, Gonzalez posted a 6.60 ERA across three minor league affiliates and an 11.81 ERA in his last 10 2/3 innings, though his strikeout rate remains solid at 30%.
• This is Gonzalez’s first designation for assignment, and while he cannot refuse an outright assignment if he clears waivers, other teams may claim him given his age, MLB experience, and minor league options.
• The White Sox’s decision likely reflects Gonzalez’s recent performance struggles, but other clubs might see potential to address his control issues or lingering injury concerns.