The White Sox announced several roster moves Thursday, including a trade of catcher Welington Castillo and an international signing bonus pool slot to the Rangers for minor league infielder/outfielder Jonah McReynolds.
The Sox were not expected to pick up Castillo’s club option for 2020.
The Sox also reinstated right-handers Michael Kopech and Ryan Burr and left-hander Carlos Rodón from the 60-day disabled list, as well as outfielder Jon Jay. All three pitchers are recovering from Tommy John surgery. Kopech is expected to be ready for spring training, while Rodon is not expected back until midseason in 2020.
Also, All-Star first baseman Jose Abreu, right-hander Ivan Nova and left-handers Hector Santiago and Ross Detwiler declared free agency, as expected. The Sox and Abreu are expected to work out a deal that will keep the American League RBI leader in Chicago.
The Sox also parted ways with lefty Josh Osich, who was claimed off waivers by the Red Sox when he was outrighted to Class AAA Charlotte earlier Thursday. Osich went 4-0 with a 4.66 ERA in 57 relief appearances in his first season with the Sox.
McReynolds, a 23-year-old former 13th-round draft pick, batted .239 with six home runs over 56 games with Advanced Rookie Spokane last season.
Castillo, 32, was a disappointment for the Sox after he was signed to a two-year deal with a club option for 2020. He served an 80-game suspension last season for violating MLB’s performance enhancing drug policy and batted .209 with 12 home runs in 72 games last season. He also struggled defensively behind the plate.
With a $500,000 buyout for 2020 on Castillo’s contract, the Rangers are expected to buy him out for that price rather than pick up his $8 million option. The international slot is $250,000. The Sox save $500,000 of payroll in favor of giving up the international money.
The Sox 40-man roster decreased to 32 following the moves.
