Lenin Sosa’s elite fastball contact and 22-homer year put him in a legitimate 1B vs Bell debate for 2026, despite a rough walk rate and limited defensive value at first. Bell’s cheaper, more traditional DH-friendly profile complicates the decision, but Sosa’s age and upside tilt the scale toward in-house growth. They also brainstorm in-house options (Teal, Caro) and potential roster pivots, including using pitching spend more efficiently than a big-first-base splash.

Beyond the 1B question, the discussion dives into the Sox’ second-half adjustments against fastballs, vertical-tilt concepts, and the impact on lineup construction. The show closes with a lighthearted trivia quiz about four-game homer streaks, underscoring how depth pieces and depth charts will shape 2026 projections.

White Sox offseason strategy focuses on depth and upside within an ~85M budget, prioritizing affordable bets and internal development. Josh Bell at first, a one-year prove-it for Dustin May, and Cody Pon as a back-end starter anchor the plan, while Noah Schultz, Braden Montgomery, and Kyle Teal push for Opening Day roles.

Roster flexibility is emphasized: Caro or Teal at catcher/DH, Vargas at third, Benintendi in left, and a SP4-5 rotation built from inexpensive bets. Cubs-Sox tensions color the chatter, but the core is value-driven growth for 2026.

Fantasy takeaway centers on value buys and breakout bets rather than splashy stars, with a focus on how many affordable bets can swing wins and how internal prospects may mature into legit contributors in 2026.