Chicago White Sox Transition Grant Taylor to Starting Pitcher

Grant Taylor has shown versatility since joining the Chicago White Sox in June 2025. Initially used as both a closer and an opener, the right-hander has also delivered multi-inning performances. One of his standout appearances was a four-inning save against the Cleveland Guardians in the American League Division Series.

With a fastball reaching 100 mph, the White Sox have decided to transition Taylor into a starting role. General Manager Chris Getz announced this decision during the GM meetings, emphasizing Taylor’s desire to become a starter. “Grant wanted to join the rotation, and we believe this is the optimal time for both him and the team,” Getz stated. “We’re confident in his ability to excel as a starter.”

In 2026, Taylor, aged 24, finished with a 7-3 record, a 2.25 ERA, and 10 saves in 60 appearances, including four starts. He struck out 106 batters and issued 30 walks over 84 innings. His postseason highlights feature allowing only one unearned run while striking out five in 2 1/3 innings against the Houston Astros in the AL wild-card series, and the memorable four-inning, six-strikeout save against the Guardians.

“He was our most reliable pitcher, alongside Sean Burke,” Getz commented on Taylor’s consistency. “Grant faced diverse situations, which boosted his confidence. Now it’s time to advance him to a starting role.” Taylor displayed his ability to extend performances, recording four outs or more in 31 regular-season games with a 1.91 ERA in those appearances.

The White Sox drafted Taylor in the second round from LSU in 2023. He began as a starter in the minors before moving to the bullpen in anticipation of his major league call-up. Despite Taylor’s rotation shift, the bullpen, which relied heavily during the 2026 season, still requires improvements, especially after trading closer Seranthony Domínguez.

“Replacing his bullpen talent won’t be easy,” stated Getz. “We’re exploring ways to strengthen it and improve our roster.” The team’s offseason priorities include starting pitching, a right-handed-hitting outfielder, and more catching depth.

Meanwhile, left-hander Hagen Smith is set to remain in the bullpen. The 2024 first-round pick recorded a 3-3 record with a 1.29 ERA in 18 outings post-promotion from Triple-A Charlotte. Used as an opener in three of his four playoff appearances, Smith allowed one run and struck out six over seven postseason innings.

“We plan for Hagen to continue in a multi-inning bullpen role,” said Getz, emphasizing the success Smith experienced in that position. However, they remain flexible about future roles. “He’ll start in a bullpen role as we enter spring training.”