White Sox Building Strong Foundation for the Future (2024)

White Sox Building Strong Foundation for the Future (2024)

Birmingham Barons coaches, Sergio Santos and John Ely, as well as White Sox General Manager, Chris Getz, reflected on the success in the White Sox minor league system during the 2024 season.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a group of kids this committed, this talented, with also the work ethic that this group actually has.” – John Ely, Birmingham Barons Pitching Coach

Santos, Ely and Getz take us through their thoughts behind some of the White Sox top prospects and the strengths behind each player. The group focused on Drew Thorpe, Brooks Baldwin, Ky Bush, Edgar Quero, DJ Gladney, Jairo Iriarte, Jake Eder, and Noah Schultz.

Thorpe is described as a focused individual set on routine and dedication. Santos and Ely recall the moment he got the call-up to the big leagues, sharing the team camaraderie that the clubhouse had in Birmingham. Similar to Thorpe, the team had similar reactions to Baldwin’s call-up and first major-league hit.

Bush, Iriarte, and Eder made their MLB debuts later in the 2024 season. Bush was described to have a competitive nature to his game, motivated to make it to the bigs after Thorpe and Baldwin’s call-ups. Iriarte was described as an aggressive competitor, shifting his mentality on start days. Birmingham coaches discussed Eder’s growth throughout the season, sharing his new confidence on the mound has made him more successful.

While still awaiting their big league moments, Quero, Gladney, and Schultz are three to watch for the future. Quero and Gladney both had big seasons in 2024. Quero takes a lot of pride in his catching abilities and has shown to be a natural leader. Gladney hit 16 home runs between his time with Winston-Salem and Birmingham. Schultz is looking to grab more innings in the minor leagues, however “his stuff is undeniable” according to the Birmingham coaching staff.

The Birmingham Barons won their first championship since 2013 this year, capturing the Southern League title in Class AA. The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers captured the Carolina League South Division regular season title this year in Class A.

“The top priority was to create a winning environment for these young prospects and we were able to accomplish that in Kannapolis and Birmingham.”- Chris Getz, White Sox Vice President & General Manager

Santos is confident that the guys he has seen in Birmingham will make a difference when they get to Chicago.

“I think there’s over 10 to 15 guys that can really make a big impact for the White Sox in the future.” – Sergio Santos, Birmingham Barons Manager

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