The Chicago White Sox are optimistic that right-handed pitcher Alexander Alberto could become a significant asset in their bullpen.
Alberto has been on the White Sox's radar for quite some time. The team was the first to express interest in him before he signed as an international free agent with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2019, hailing from the Dominican Republic. Thus, when he was left unprotected prior to the 2025 Rule 5 Draft, he understood there was a strong possibility he might be traded.
"I’ve always kept that in mind," Alberto shared during a Tuesday Zoom call, expressing his eagerness about this new opportunity and his anticipation for spring training.
While it's true that Alberto has yet to pitch at a level beyond Single-A, he possesses an intriguing skill set that could greatly benefit a White Sox team that had a strikeout rate of 22.6%, ranking them in the middle tier, and a walk rate of 10.4%, which was the sixth highest in the league last season. In his appearances across two levels, he recorded an impressive 2.59 ERA and struck out 64 batters.
General Manager Chris Getz commented on Alberto’s potential after the Rule 5 Draft, stating, "We believe he can be a significant weapon in the bullpen. He will need to transition gradually to the major leagues, but he has the skills to compete effectively against any batter. There are command issues that we aim to refine, but we're excited to start working with him."
This season, the White Sox have revamped their coaching staff, bringing in new pitching coach Zach Bove and assistant pitching coach Bobby Hearn. Bove is known for his ability to connect with young pitchers, particularly during his tenure in Kansas City, where he excelled at simplifying complex information for them.
Manager Will Venable emphasized the team's goal for the upcoming year, stating, "We’re focused on being as efficient as possible and ensuring that everyone is aligned in our efforts to develop players. The balance between winning and development is crucial, and that idea shaped how we structured our coaching staff and the types of coaches we hired. For us, fostering a winning culture and achieving victories hinges on effective player development, and that was paramount in our planning."
The White Sox felt confident enough in Alberto's abilities to select him during the Rule 5 Draft. However, if Alberto does not remain on the major league roster for the entire 2026 season, the team will have to place him on waivers and offer him back to the Rays for half of his $100,000 selection fee.
The newly appointed coaching staff faces the challenge of helping Alberto channel his considerable talent effectively and maintain his control on the mound. If they can accomplish this, they may uncover a valuable asset for critical situations in late-game scenarios. Alberto represents a low-risk investment with substantial potential, especially following the success of his recent season in 2025.
Alberto believes that adjustments in his pitching mechanics, such as a shorter arm action and a lower leg kick, have improved his consistency and strike-throwing ability. With a fastball that can hit speeds up to 101 mph and a slider in the mid-80s range, he has the repertoire the White Sox bullpen desperately needs. Now, it's up to the team's pitching staff to determine whether their strategies will yield results in 2026.
"I am aware that making it to the majors is a formidable challenge, which is why I’m putting in the effort to seize this chance," Alberto remarked. "I know there have been instances where players were not expected to make their major league debut, yet through hard work, they made the team out of spring training. That’s my inspiration—to be one of those players."
Kyle Williams (https://chicago.suntimes.com/authors/kyle-williams)
Chicago Sun-Times Sports reporter, Report for America.
