Chicago White Sox make a bold move by signing Munetaka Murakami, aiming to inject power and excitement into a struggling lineup. Is this high-upside gamble the spark for a new era on the South Side? Host Todd Welter and OnTapSportsNet.com's Besnik Zekiri discuss whether Murakami’s massive power—reminiscent of Kyle Schwarber and Aaron Judge—will translate from Japan to MLB, and weigh the risk of boom-or-bust outcomes.

They also break down the potential impact on Lenyn Sosa, Miguel Vargas, and other young talents as roster spots tighten and the Sox navigate a competitive rebuild.

Key discussion points include the challenges of developing prospects like Colson Montgomery, Kyle Teel, and Edgar Quero, the ongoing Luis Robert Jr. trade rumors, and the strategic direction under GM Chris Getz. With an international star, a #1 draft pick looming, and offseason moves stirring hope, can the White Sox shift from perennial disappointment to "fun bad"—or is guarded optimism still the safest bet for fans?

0:00 — Murakami Signing Risk & Upside
Discussion led by Todd Welter and Besnik Zekiri about the calculated risk the White Sox are taking with Munetaka Murakami, his player profile, MLB projections, and international significance.

10:35 — Murakami’s Impact on Roster
Segment focuses on the signing’s effect on current roster players like Lenyn Sosa, Miguel Vargas, positional battles, and speculation about potential trades or role changes.

22:21 — Cautious Optimism & Future Moves
Conversation centers on the guarded hope for the White Sox’s direction, remaining offseason needs, prospects, and long-term franchise strategies.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago White Sox face a pivotal crossroads as trading Luis Robert Jr. emerges as the franchise’s last, best shot to revitalize the roster for 2026 and beyond. Host Todd Welter unpacks Bob Nightingale’s report linking Robert to the Mets and Reds for pitching depth, raising tough questions—should fans embrace major change or hope for a healthy Robert to ignite an up-and-coming lineup featuring Munetaka Murakami, Colson Montgomery, and Kyle Teel?

The Chicago White Sox face a pivotal crossroads as trading Luis Robert Jr. emerges as the franchise’s last, best shot to revitalize the roster for 2026 and beyond. Host Todd Welter unpacks Bob Nightingale’s report linking Robert to the Mets and Reds for pitching depth, raising tough questions—should fans embrace major change or hope for a healthy Robert to ignite an up-and-coming lineup featuring Munetaka Murakami, Colson Montgomery, and Kyle Teel?

Host Todd Welter highlights the new coaching staff’s focus on defined roles, player development, and maximizing prospects, with insights from Chicago beat writers. The analysis spotlights high-upside signings, impending budget limitations, and the White Sox’s evolving rebuild strategy. With optimism sparked by the Murakami signing and a top draft pick, can Chicago fans finally dream again, or is more upheaval on the horizon?

0:00 – White Sox Rebuild & LRJ Trade Rumors
Todd Welter opens with the argument that trading Luis Robert Jr. (LRJ) is the only significant route left for the White Sox to upgrade their 2026 roster. He breaks down the Bob Nightingale report, discusses the limits of the club’s budget after the Murakami signing, and why pitching depth in a trade is now key. He also weighs the pros and cons of moving LRJ, given his value and Scott Boras representation.

10:12 – Murakami Signing & Fan Optimism
Todd Welter reflects on the White Sox landing Munetaka Murakami, the hope this generates for fans, and why it “feels weird” for the team to have nice things happen. He talks about the potential risk (swing and miss issues, draft busts), the new draft pick’s upside, and a shift in organizational approach—emphasizing taking swings at high-ceiling talent.

20:57 – Coaching Staff Overhaul & Player Development
The last segment covers the new-look coaching staff, highlighting defined coaching roles, a specific focus on player development at the big league level, insights from Chicago beat writers, and how this organizational reset could maximize young talent, base running, and game planning in the margins.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chicago White Sox shock the baseball world by signing Japanese superstar Munetaka Murakami, reigniting hope for the South Side faithful. Can Murakami’s prodigious power transform a rebuilding roster and set the stage for another Jose Abreu-esque era at Guaranteed Rate Field?

Todd Welter breaks down the historic two-year, $34 million deal, detailing why the White Sox outmaneuvered rivals like the Angels and Padres in the free agent sweepstakes. Key topics include Murakami’s fit in the lineup alongside Colson Montgomery and Kyle Teel, questions about his defensive position, and how this move reopens the Japanese talent pipeline. Insights on potential lineups, the impact on prospects like Lenyn Sosa and Miguel Vargas, and future payroll concerns keep Sox Nation buzzing. Will this bold signing fast-track the White Sox’s rebuild or carry boom-or-bust risks for the club’s future?

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago White Sox have been linked to Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami as ESPN predicts an unprecedented, yet surprisingly affordable, $80 million deal. Will the South Siders make a bold move to secure generational power at first or third base and jumpstart their rebuild?

Host Todd Welter weighs in on the strategic implications, highlighting league projections, posting fees, and the lingering perception that Jerry Reinsdorf's frugality hinders big signings.

Key discussions include whether pitching budget should be spent on a closer like Pete Fairbanks or bolstered through veteran starters and high-leverage bullpen arms, as well as fan reactions to the team’s steady stream of minor acquisitions. The podcast breaks down Chicago’s payroll flexibility, the market for power bats, and the urgency to make impactful moves before the posting deadline, while exploring White Sox fans’ expectations for balancing headline deals and smart roster additions.

0:00 — Murakami to White Sox: Affordable Deal?
Host Todd Welter discusses ESPN’s prediction that Munetaka Murakami could land with the White Sox on a surprisingly affordable contract. Analysis of why $80 million over five years could actually fit the team’s budget, comparisons to past deals, and what Murakami could bring to the franchise.

10:33 — Closer Debate: Fairbanks vs. Internal Options
Should the Sox spend big on a veteran closer like Pete Fairbanks? Todd Welter argues why closer money should be out of the question for a rebuilding team, breaks down Fairbanks’ medical risks, and advocates for internal development and spreading budget across multiple high-leverage arms.

18:55 — Fan Poll Results: Minor Moves Frustration
Todd Welter reveals and reacts to fan poll results on the White Sox’s offseason approach, examining fan opinions on the team’s focus on minor deals versus big headline signings. He discusses why a balanced approach would satisfy most fans and stresses the urgency of missing out on key free agents.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Chicago White Sox face pivotal draft decision: is Roch Cholowsky truly the franchise savior, or does he still have crucial bars to clear before cementing his status as the top pick? Host Todd Welter spotlights the unique leverage Cholowsky brings, the front office’s need for a bulletproof scouting process, and the risks of regression in high-profile prospects. Examining Justin Lebron, Grady Emerson, and Jacob Lombard as potential alternatives, the episode questions whether the White Sox should prioritize college shortstops or keep the door open to high-upside high school stars.

Host Todd Welter dissects the latest player moves, including Tristan Peters joining from the Tampa Bay Rays and the hiring of Carlos Rodriguez as assistant GM to revamp international ops and the White Sox’s Dominican academy. The show also tackles MLB’s controversial move to centralize minor league data and technology, asking: does this limit innovation and reward lazy ownership? Insightful, candid, and a must-listen for fans tracking the Sox’s path to relevance.

0:00 – Cholowsky's Draft Hurdles
Overview of why Roch Cholowsky isn't a guaranteed #1 pick for the White Sox, what bars he must clear at UCLA, and why the pick requires due diligence.

9:44 – Rays Influence & Roster Moves
White Sox's ongoing strategy of acquiring Tampa Bay Rays assets—players like Tristan Peters and especially front office exec Carlos Rodriguez. Analysis of what these moves mean for Chicago’s future direction, plus a breakdown of the current outfield situation.

19:46 – MLB Tech Regulation Debate
Major League Baseball’s move to centralize minor league technology and data. Why Todd Welter thinks it's bad for innovation and how it could enable lazy ownership, with references to White Sox history and wider league impact.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

White Sox fans wonder: will the front office ever win a major free agency bidding war? With Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami drawing MLB interest, Host Todd Welter unpacks why financial realities make a blockbuster deal with the Chicago White Sox unlikely—citing owner Jerry Reinsdorf’s aversion to nine-figure contracts despite a modest projected payroll. Would you risk $200 million on a high-strikeout NPB bat, or invest in proven young talent like Colson Montgomery and Shane Smith?

Host Todd Welter also spotlights key offseason moves, the importance of adding veteran rotation depth, and reflects on Harold Baines’s legacy—from number one overall pick to franchise icon and Hall of Famer. Get insights on the Sox’s rebuild strategy, development gaps with reclamation pitchers, and what the team must do to turn “old friend” listers into core building blocks. Will Chicago finally break its conservative mold to attract top-tier talent?

0:00 – Sox & Murakami Rumors Breakdown of Jim Duquette’s suggestion the White Sox should pursue Munetaka Murakami, analysis of why they won’t—including deep dive into payroll constraints and risk assessment.

11:22 – Old Friends Sign Elsewhere Discussion on the White Sox’s rebuilding cycle, why fans will see former Sox players signing with other teams, and analysis of player development plus the importance of adding teaching coaches.

20:11 – Harold Baines Tribute Way Back Wednesday focusing on Harold Baines’s career, his impact as the last Sox number one overall pick, and why his Hall of Fame induction matters to the organization.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago White Sox face a pivotal offseason as Luis Robert Jr. draws trade interest from the Pittsburgh Pirates, Mets, and Padres. Could a blockbuster deal reshape both franchises, or will GM Chris Getz hold out for a top-tier return? The discussion explores Pittsburgh’s deep farm system, weighing the pros and cons of acquiring prospects like Rafael Flores, Thomas Harrington, and Esmerlyn Valdez if salary is covered.

Host Todd Welter examines missed opportunities with free agents Adolis García and Josh Bell, questioning the Sox’s reluctance to spend and the likelihood of settling for internal options like Brooks Baldwin and Lenyn Sosa. Listener mail spotlights the race between 2024 top draft prospects Rock Cholowsky and Billy Carlson—who will reach MLB first? Get insights on the Sox’s rebuilding strategy, free agency priorities, and prospects’ development timeline. Are the White Sox ready to make bold moves or destined for another year of bridge options?

0:00 – Luis Robert Jr. Trade Rumors

Host Todd Welter introduces the show and discusses the ongoing trade rumors surrounding Luis Robert Jr., focusing on the Pittsburgh Pirates' reported interest, trade package expectations, farm system deep dive, and impact on the White Sox.

11:33 – White Sox First Base & Right Field Plans

Todd Welter analyzes the White Sox’s recent missed opportunities in free agency (Adolis Garcia, Josh Bell), what it means for first base and right field next season, internal options, and broader organizational spending strategy.

21:19 – Mailbag: Next Shortstop ETA

Dedicated to answering listener Bob’s question: if the Sox take Rock Cholowsky next July, will he or Billy Carlson reach MLB first? Todd Welter gives a breakdown of player development timelines, swing adjustments, and historical rookie call-ups.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Chicago White Sox face mounting frustration as big-ticket signings pass them by. Is ownership’s reluctance to make major moves sabotaging their rebuild chances? Recent offseasons have seen the Sox limited to waiver wire pickups and bargain signings, while coveted stars like Pete Alonso and Cody Bellinger land elsewhere. Trade talks with the New York Mets stall as financial inflexibility impacts possible deals involving Luis Robert Jr.

Host Todd Welter breaks down the White Sox’s “minor move mindset.” He also goes over the weekend bottom-of-the-market acquisitions of pitcher Ryan Rolison and infielder Oliver Dunn, along with Tim Elko coming back on a minor-league deal.

Todd also weighs in on Caleb Bonemer’s ascent as the organization’s top prospect according to Baseball Prospectus and the changing landscape of the farm system.

0:00 — Minor Moves vs. Major Moves
Host Todd Welter opens the show discussing the White Sox’s tendency to make minor additions, arguing that while every team shops the bargain bin, frustration over the lack of big, bold moves is justified—especially given missed opportunities with major free agents.

10:42 — Weekend moves made
Host Todd Welter goes over what recently claimed pitcher Ryan Rolison brings to the table along with the White Sox adding Oliver Dunn on a minor-league deal. He also goes over the White Sox doing the right thing by bringing back Tim Elko.

18:21 — Prospect Rankings Debate
Host Todd Welter pivots to recent prospect lists, notably Baseball Prospectus naming Caleb Bonemer the Sox’s top prospect. He explores differences between major publications and argues the system now features legit top-100 talent, marking significant progress for the franchise.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.