The first move of the offseason is here and it’s a monstrous one! The White Sox and free agent catcher Yasmani Grandal have agreed to a four-year, $73 million contract. As the team announced this morning, Grandal will receive $18.25 million per year from 2020-2023. Do the math and yes, that is the largest deal in franchise history.
Grandal, a two-time All-Star catcher, is a perfect fit for this White Sox team that is ready to make the leap. Last season, the 31-year-old slashed .246/.380/.468 with a career high of 28 home runs, 77 RBI, 79 runs scored, and 109 walks over 153 games in Milwaukee. He also finished 15th in the National League’s MVP voting.
“Yasmani ranks among the very elite catchers in Major League Baseball today, and we are extremely happy to add a durable and talented player of his caliber to our lineup,” said Rick Hahn, White Sox general manager. “His selectivity at the plate is a real plus offensively, and as a switch hitter, his combination of power and on-base percentage stand out. Yasmani’s defensive abilities, pitch framing and other advanced catching metrics also separate him from others in the game.”
“In addition to what he brings to the field, Yasmani is also a great benefit in the clubhouse,” Hahn said. “We foresee him playing an integral role on both the further development of our young pitchers and the continued improvement of our offense as we reach our championship goals.”
As for Grandal, he is ready to begin his tenure on the South Side. “My family and I are very excited and honored to be a part of the Chicago White Sox organization. I loved their professionalism, preparation and vision towards the future. I want to thank them for allowing me to be a part of this process moving forward.”
Outfielder Daniel Palka was designated for assignment as the corresponding roster move.
Be sure to follow us on social media @SoxOn35th for more updates as this signing unfolds.
Featured Photo: Brewers/Twitter
