WHITE SOX SET TO ADD DARREN BAKER ON MINOR LEAGUE DEAL: A LOOK AT THE MOVE AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE TEAM

As Spring Training approaches, teams across Major League Baseball are fine-tuning their rosters, with the Chicago White Sox no exception. As has become tradition, many teams will invite a handful of players to Spring Training on minor league deals with invitations to compete for spots on the major league roster. The White Sox have followed this strategy in recent years, and while some notable names like Joey Gallo and Mike Moustakas didn’t make the team after training camp, others have used this opportunity to secure a spot and contribute significantly.

The Current Situation for the White Sox
At this point, the White Sox have a few non-roster players already invited to Spring Training, but there’s every expectation that more will be added as we near the official reporting date in Arizona. The latest name on the White Sox’s radar is Darren Baker, a move that is beginning to garner attention for several reasons.

According to Mark Gonzales, a senior writer for Grand Canyon University, the White Sox are nearing an agreement with Darren Baker for a minor league deal. While the deal is not yet final, Baker’s potential arrival could add depth to the White Sox’s roster, and his famous baseball lineage could inject some excitement into the team.

Who is Darren Baker?
Darren Baker is not just any player — he is the son of Dusty Baker, a legendary player and current MLB coach. The younger Baker’s career has had its own moments in the spotlight, and he is now looking to carve out his own place in the majors. At 26 years old, Baker is still working to establish himself in the big leagues but has shown flashes of talent that make him an intriguing option for the White Sox.

Baker made his MLB debut in 2024 with the Washington Nationals, and his debut was nothing short of impressive. Over nine games, he hit 7-for-14, a .500 batting average, with one run scored, showcasing his potential at the plate. While his major league stint was brief, Baker’s performance in those games left a positive impression on those who saw him play.

A Look at Baker’s Minor League Performance
Though his time in the majors was short, Baker’s 2025 season with the Nationals’ Triple-A affiliate provides a clearer picture of what he brings to the table. Over the course of 107 games in Triple-A, Baker posted a .256/.343/.318 slash line. While he didn’t show much power, hitting just one home run, he did demonstrate impressive speed, stealing 26 bases. This is consistent with his minor league career, where he has accumulated 102 stolen bases in 453 games and a .280 batting average.

Baker’s style of play isn’t centered around hitting home runs, but rather his ability to get on base and use his speed once he reaches. His on-base percentage is an asset, especially when paired with his speed on the basepaths. In a utility role, Baker’s versatility would be valuable, as he has the ability to play both the infield and the outfield. This flexibility will allow him to compete for a spot in the White Sox lineup, especially in a potential bench role or as a depth option if the team suffers injuries.

Why Darren Baker Could Fit with the White Sox
The White Sox’s roster is largely set for the 2026 season, which makes it a tough task for any non-roster invitee to make the team. However, Baker’s speed and versatility could earn him a role as a utility player, where he would provide much-needed depth for the team. Additionally, given the current makeup of the White Sox’s roster, Baker could have a chance to prove himself in Spring Training and potentially earn a spot on the major league roster as a bench player who can be called upon for his defensive flexibility and speed.

If Baker doesn’t break camp with the White Sox, he will likely begin the season with Triple-A Charlotte, where he can continue to develop and potentially get called up in the event of an injury or if there is a need for a spark off the bench. The White Sox could also benefit from having a player like Baker in the system, especially as they look to keep their options open throughout the season.

Baker’s Legacy and Potential Impact
As the son of Dusty Baker, there is naturally a certain level of excitement surrounding Darren’s career, but he has worked hard to create his own identity in baseball. The Baker name carries weight, but Darren’s performance on the field will ultimately determine his future in the game. With his combination of defensive flexibility, speed, and a solid on-base ability, he could provide the White Sox with an important role player who can contribute in multiple areas of the game.

The White Sox are in need of depth and versatility, especially as the season progresses and injuries inevitably arise. Baker could serve as a valuable insurance policy, and his ability to contribute as a pinch runner, a spot starter in the field, or a defensive replacement in late-game situations could make him a useful asset for the White Sox in 2026.

The Road Ahead
While the White Sox’s roster is nearly set for 2026, the addition of Darren Baker could still be a move worth making. His potential to contribute in a utility role, combined with his impressive minor league numbers and major league experience, makes him an interesting option for the team. As Spring Training draws near, the White Sox will be closely evaluating Baker’s fit and seeing if he can make an impact.

For Baker, the opportunity to play for the White Sox represents an important step in his baseball career, and it’s a chance for him to prove that he can carve out a role in the major leagues, separate from his father’s legacy. With his speed, versatility, and on-base skills, Baker may have the tools to make a difference for the White Sox in 2026 — it will be fascinating to see how he performs in Spring Training and whether he can secure a spot on the team as the season unfolds.

As the team gets ready for Spring Training, Darren Baker could be a name to watch in the coming weeks, and his journey with the White Sox will certainly be one to follow.