White Sox cut bait on curious Rule 5 draft pick with clear-cut decision

Feb 24, 2026; Peoria, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Alexander Alberto (62) during the fourth inning in Peoria, Arizona. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images | Arianna Grainey-Imagn ImagesThe White Sox had an unprecedented amount of success in the Rule 5 draft in 2025. Right-hander Shane Smith, who the team took with the first overall pick from Milwaukee, went on to become the second player ever to make the All-Star team in his rookie year as a Rule 5 pick. Mike Vasil, another Rule 5 pick, was an integral part of the White Sox pitching staff after being claimed on waivers just before the season began. This season, White Sox camp features a lot more competition, and it forced the White Sox to already cut ties with one of their two Rule 5 picks.

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