White Sox Acquire Hicks, Sandlin in Controversial Trade

GM's comments about 'Sandlin as part of Robert return' raise eyebrows over payroll concerns

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:23am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric representation of a baseball pitcher in motion, conveying the complex dynamics and strategic decisions involved in the White Sox's recent trades and signings.The White Sox's latest roster moves raise questions about the team's financial flexibility and long-term planning as they aim to build a contender for 2026 and beyond.Bridgeport Today

The Chicago White Sox have made another significant move, acquiring right-handers Jordan Hicks and David Sandlin, along with $8 million in cash, in exchange for pitching prospect Gage Ziehl and a player to be named later. This comes on the heels of their previous transactions to sign free agents Seranthony Dominguez and Austin Hays. However, White Sox GM Chris Getz's comment that 'adding Sandlin is essentially part of a Luis Robert return' has raised concerns over the team's ability to support a payroll that includes Robert, Dominguez, Hays, and Hicks without exceeding their current $85.5 million budget.

Why it matters

The White Sox's recent moves suggest they are aggressively trying to build a contending roster for the 2026 season. However, the team's payroll flexibility and Getz's comments about Sandlin being part of a potential Robert return have led to speculation that owner Jerry Reinsdorf may be imposing strict budget restrictions, which could impact the team's ability to retain key players like Robert long-term.

The details

Sandlin, a hard-throwing right-hander, is expected to compete for a spot in the White Sox's rotation during Spring Training, despite his limited experience of only 23 2/3 innings at the Triple-A level in 2025, where he posted a 7.61 ERA. Jordan Hicks, on the other hand, brings more experience to the pitching staff, though he is considered a rebound candidate after struggling with a 6.95 ERA across 67 1/3 innings with the Giants and Red Sox in 2025.

  • The White Sox made this trade on April 13, 2026.

The players

Jordan Hicks

A right-handed pitcher who the White Sox acquired in the trade. He has struggled with injuries and subpar performance in recent seasons but is looking to bounce back with the White Sox.

David Sandlin

A right-handed pitcher who the White Sox acquired in the trade. He has limited experience at the Triple-A level but will compete for a spot in the team's rotation during Spring Training.

Chris Getz

The general manager of the Chicago White Sox, who made comments suggesting that the acquisition of Sandlin is related to a potential trade involving star outfielder Luis Robert.

Jerry Reinsdorf

The owner of the Chicago White Sox, who is believed to be imposing strict budget restrictions on the team's payroll.

Gage Ziehl

A pitching prospect who the White Sox traded to the other team in this deal.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.