White Sox Pitcher Mike Vasil Competes for Rotation Spot

Versatile reliever from 2025 looks to earn starting role this spring

Feb. 23, 2026 at 11:34pm

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Mike Vasil, a right-handed pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, is competing for a spot in the team's starting rotation this spring training after serving primarily as a versatile reliever in 2025. Vasil made three starts last June and also collected four saves, demonstrating his ability to pitch in various roles. Despite a rough outing on Sunday, Vasil is focused on making adjustments and putting himself in the best position to contribute to the team's pitching staff this season.

Why it matters

The White Sox rotation is far from set, with several pitchers vying for spots. Vasil's versatility and experience in multiple roles last season make him an intriguing option, as the team looks to solidify its starting rotation and bullpen ahead of the upcoming season.

The details

Vasil started Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers, allowing one run on three hits with one strikeout and two walks in 1 1/3 innings. He described the outing as "pretty bad," with his sinker being "way off." However, Vasil is determined to make the necessary adjustments and build on his strong 2025 campaign, where he went 5-3 with a 2.50 ERA in 47 appearances, leading major-league relievers with 25 outings of at least two innings.

  • Vasil started Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers.
  • Vasil made three starts in June 2025, pitching into the fourth inning each time.

The players

Mike Vasil

A right-handed pitcher for the Chicago White Sox who is competing for a spot in the team's starting rotation this spring training after serving primarily as a versatile reliever in 2025.

Will Venable

The manager of the Chicago White Sox, who is evaluating the team's pitching staff during spring training and is not making any decisions on the rotation at this early stage.

Shane Smith

A pitcher for the Chicago White Sox who is likely to occupy one of the three rotation spots, allowing three runs (two earned) on two hits with one walk in 1 2/3 innings in Monday's start against the Colorado Rockies.

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What they’re saying

“I did everything last year. It was cool that I could pitch in a bunch of different roles for me to focus on getting better every day. I'm not really looking to do one thing or the other, but for me to have the opportunity to go out and win a spot is huge and I'm looking forward to making the most of it.”

— Mike Vasil

“It's good to get back out there again. I did a decent job filling up the zone and winning the race to (two strikes). Getting a walk is frustrating, but other than that I filled up the zone pretty good.”

— Shane Smith, Pitcher

“We're not making any decisions here on these first couple (outings), want to let these guys get their feet wet. But it's nice to be out there competing and seeing these guys. You think about all the moments (Vasil) had last year and just to see him back on the mound was great. Same with these other guys, some of these guys we haven't seen before. It's nice to see them go out there and do their thing.”

— Will Venable, Manager

What’s next

The White Sox will continue to evaluate their pitching staff throughout spring training as they look to solidify their rotation and bullpen ahead of the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Mike Vasil's versatility and experience in multiple roles last season make him an intriguing option for the White Sox as they look to build a strong pitching staff. His determination to make adjustments and earn a spot in the rotation demonstrates his commitment to contributing to the team's success.