White Sox Face Royals in Spring Training Matchup

Sox rotation taking shape as they look to bounce back against KC

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

The Chicago White Sox will take on the Kansas City Royals in a spring training game, with the Sox looking to build momentum after optioning some pitchers to the minors. The White Sox announced that right-hander Tanner McDougal and left-hander Noah Schultz have been sent down, while Shane Smith will get the Opening Day start for the big league club. The Royals will counter with promising young pitcher Noah Cameron, who had an impressive rookie season in 2025.

Why it matters

This spring training matchup is an important tune-up for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season. The White Sox are looking to solidify their rotation and get their offense going, while the Royals hope to build on the success of their young pitching staff.

The details

The White Sox will send a lineup that includes Hicks, who has seen an uptick in his fastball velocity this spring, and LaMonte Wade Jr., who is making a push for a roster spot with a strong performance so far. The Royals will counter with Noah Cameron, who finished fourth in AL Rookie of the Year voting last year after a standout debut season.

  • The game is scheduled for a 3:05 pm CT first pitch on March 8, 2026.
  • The White Sox announced their roster moves on March 7, 2026.

The players

Tanner McDougal

A right-handed pitcher in the White Sox minor league system who has been optioned to Triple-A.

Noah Schultz

A left-handed pitcher in the White Sox minor league system who has been sent down to minor league camp.

Shane Smith

The White Sox right-hander who will make the Opening Day start for the big league club.

Noah Cameron

A promising young right-handed pitcher for the Royals who finished fourth in AL Rookie of the Year voting in 2025.

LaMonte Wade Jr.

A White Sox outfielder/first baseman making a push for a roster spot with a strong spring performance.

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What’s next

The White Sox will continue to evaluate their roster and rotation options as they prepare for the start of the 2026 MLB season.

The takeaway

This spring training matchup between the White Sox and Royals is an important opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their rosters and get ready for the upcoming season. The White Sox are looking to solidify their rotation and get their offense going, while the Royals hope to build on the success of their young pitching staff.