In Glendale, Arizona, Lenyn Sosa has concentrated on improving his defensive adaptability during the offseason by playing in the Venezuelan Winter League. Despite leading the Chicago White Sox with 22 home runs in the 2025 season, Sosa faces uncertainty about making the Opening Day roster due to his lack of a fixed defensive position and remaining out of minor-league options.
Sosa, who advanced through the White Sox system as a shortstop before transitioning to second base in 2022, explained his mindset recently:
“I don’t really pay attention to what my role is. It’s just trying to get better every day and do the best for me every day.”
His approach emphasizes steady improvement rather than focusing on a specific position assignment.
Challenges in Position and Competition Within the White Sox Infield
The defensive difficulties complicate Sosa’s roster chances, particularly since he equals the risk of being exposed to waivers if he does not make the team. Chase Meidroth has emerged as the primary second baseman during the latter part of last season, while Sosa posted a minus-10 defensive runs saved at that position. Miguel Vargas is slated as the starting third baseman, further limiting Sosa’s infield opportunities.
Sosa’s possibility of starting at first base has decreased notably with the acquisition of Munetaka Murakami, who signed a two-year, $34 million contract. Last season, Sosa saw 42 games at first base but will likely have to compete with Murakami’s presence there. Meanwhile, the versatility of new players Luisangel Acuna and Tanner Murray adds to the competition, although Acuna is expected to primarily fill center field duties.
Sosa’s Offensive Strategy and Approach at the Plate
Lenyn Sosa stated his intention to adopt a more aggressive batting style during the upcoming season, focusing on attacking first-pitch strikes rather than increasing his walk rate, which was 3.3% last year. He said,
“The plan for this year is to be even more aggressive. What I mean with that is just trying to really crush pitches that are in the strike zone.”
This offensive adjustment aims to maximize his impact at the plate despite positional uncertainties.
Utilization of Munetaka Murakami and Pitching Rotations
The White Sox plan to start Munetaka Murakami in the lineup on Sunday and Monday, with a scheduled rest day on Tuesday. Manager Will Venable indicated Murakami would likely return to play Thursday and Friday before heading to Japan for World Baseball Classic preparations. Murakami made a strong Cactus League debut with two hits and two RBIs.
Regarding pitching, right-handers Mike Vasil and Sean Burke are slated to pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, while Shane Smith, Seranthony Dominguez, and Grant Taylor are scheduled to take the mound against the Colorado Rockies on Monday.
Jordan Hicks and the Impact of Automated Ball-Strike System on Pitching
Pitcher Jordan Hicks has praised the automated ball-strike (ABS) system, citing its benefits for his ride-back sinker, a pitch umpires have tended to overlook. He remarked,
“I’ve been telling people I think I might be one of the biggest beneficiaries [of ABS] because of that ride-back sinker.”
Hicks also highlighted trust in catchers’ abilities to judge strikes accurately, stating,
“At the end of the day, I think we’re going to trust the catchers overall. I think they probably have the best zone awareness over a pitcher. They see hundreds of pitches come in every single day.”
Hicks, who once umpired youth games as a teenager, expressed appreciation for catcher Edgar Quero’s challenge request that led to an overturned call against the Athletics’ Max Muncy, though he noted no disrespect was meant toward plate umpire Charlie Ramos.
White Sox’s Strong Performance Against the Athletics in Latest Game
The White Sox defeated the Athletics 11-2, fueled by 14 hits and key contributions from players contending for roster spots. Edgar Quero produced two-run singles in the first and third innings, while Brooks Baldwin hit a home run off a changeup to start the second inning. Baldwin is also fighting for an outfield position on the team.
Shortstop Colson Montgomery demonstrated solid defensive skills with a smooth play avoiding collision with Miguel Vargas and executing an accurate throw to retire Colby Thomas. Left-hander Chris Murphy impressed with first-pitch strikes to eight of the ten batters faced but allowed two wild pitches in the second inning that led to a run by the Athletics.
The White Sox will face the Brewers next at 2:05 p.m. Sunday in Glendale, with Logan Henderson pitching against Mike Vasil, broadcast on CHSN.
Overall Outlook and Implications for Lenyn Sosa
Lenyn Sosa’s quest for a roster spot remains fraught with obstacles including defensive limitations, stiff competition from teammates, and the loss of minor-league options that compel the White Sox to make difficult decisions. His offseason dedication to versatility and more aggressive hitting may enhance his appeal, but the arrival of established players like Murakami and the emergence of multi-positional newcomers increase the challenge.
The White Sox’s decisions regarding infield alignment and outfield depth in the days ahead will be pivotal for Sosa’s future. His ability to adapt and perform amidst these pressures will significantly influence his standing on the Opening Day roster and beyond.
