Hometown Hero Returns: White Sox Take a Chance on Ryan Borucki
In a move that’s sure to spark nostalgia for Chicago baseball fans, the White Sox have signed left-handed pitcher Ryan Borucki to a minor league deal, complete with an invitation to their big league Spring Training camp. For Borucki, this isn’t just another contract—it’s a homecoming. The veteran southpaw grew up just north of the Windy City in Mundelein, Illinois, making this signing a feel-good story for the local fanbase. But here’s where it gets interesting: can Borucki still deliver on the mound after a string of inconsistent seasons?
With eight MLB seasons under his belt, Borucki brings a wealth of experience to a relatively young and unproven White Sox bullpen. While Chicago’s primary focus during their rebuild is giving opportunities to younger pitchers, having a seasoned arm like Borucki in the mix could prove invaluable—especially if he pitches well enough in camp to secure a roster spot. And this is the part most people miss: Borucki’s addition also addresses a critical need for left-handed depth. Brandon Eisert and Tyler Gilbert, the team’s top southpaw options, had underwhelming performances in 2025, leaving room for improvement.
But here’s the controversial part: Borucki’s career hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing. Despite his experience, he’s struggled against right-handed batters and has a tendency to give up home runs. Over 256 1/3 career innings, he’s posted a 4.28 ERA, a 19.7% strikeout rate, and an 8.9% walk rate—numbers that don’t exactly scream dominance. However, there’s a silver lining: Borucki has excelled at keeping the ball on the ground, with a 51.8% grounder rate over 135 1/3 innings from 2021-25. Could this be the key to his success in Chicago?
In 2025, Borucki split time between the Pirates and Blue Jays, posting a 4.63 ERA, a 22% strikeout rate, and an 11% walk rate over 35 innings. A back injury sidelined him for six weeks, adding another layer of uncertainty to his future. After being released by Pittsburgh in August, he rejoined Toronto—his original team—on a minor league deal, only to be designated for assignment and outrighted after just four MLB outings. It’s been a rollercoaster ride, but the White Sox are betting he still has something left in the tank.
So, here’s the question for you: Is Ryan Borucki’s signing a smart move by the White Sox, or is it a risky gamble on a pitcher past his prime? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. One thing’s for sure—this hometown hero’s return is a story worth watching as Spring Training approaches.
