Chicago White Sox Secure Former Blue Jays Pitcher with $12 Million Contract
The Chicago White Sox have signed former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Anthony Kay to a significant contract worth $12 million. This two-year deal reflects the team’s efforts to rebuild after a challenging season.
Deal Highlights
- Contract Duration: Two years
- Total Value: $12 million
- Annual Salary: $5 million for both 2026 and 2027
- Mutual Option: $10 million for 2028 with a $2 million buyout
Anthony Kay’s Recent Performance
Before signing with the White Sox, Anthony Kay played for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball for two seasons. His performance in Japan was impressive:
- ERA: 1.74, a record for Yokohama
- Innings Pitched: 155
- Groundball Rate: 57.8%, the highest in NPB
- Fastball Velocity: Averaged 94.6 MPH
MLB Career Background
Anthony Kay has had a varied career in Major League Baseball. From 2019 to 2023, he pitched for the Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets, appearing in 44 games. His MLB statistics include:
- ERA: 5.59
- Strikeouts: 88
- Innings Pitched: 85.1
- Games Started: 7
Notable Transactions
Kay was originally part of a significant trade deal that sent star pitcher Marcus Stroman from the Toronto Blue Jays to the New York Mets. This transaction occurred in July 2019, prior to Kay’s MLB debut.
Impact on the White Sox
Kay joins the White Sox as they seek to improve following a disappointing last-place finish in the American League, ending the season with a record of 60-102. His experience and recent performance in Japan may provide a boost to the team’s pitching lineup.
The signing of Anthony Kay signals a positive move for the White Sox as they look forward to the upcoming seasons. As a former top prospect returning to the majors, his contributions will be closely watched.
