White Sox Ink Travis Jankowski to Minor League Contract

The Chicago White Sox are banking on veteran outfielder Travis Jankowski to bolster their roster as they grapple with injuries ahead of the 2025 MLB season.

Jankowski, a seasoned journeyman with a decade of big-league experience, has joined the team on a minor league contract, offering much-needed depth and flexibility to the outfield unit.

With players like Andrew Benintendi and Austin Slater sidelined, Jankowski’s versatility and defensive prowess may prove crucial for the White Sox as they navigate their early-season challenges.

Who Is Travis Jankowski?

Travis Jankowski is no stranger to Major League Baseball, having donned the uniforms of six different teams before landing with the White Sox.

Best known as a speedster and defensive standout, Jankowski has carved out a niche as a reliable glove in the outfield, capable of playing all three positions.

His career batting line of .236/.319/.305 underscores his finesse-focused game, emphasizing defense over power.

While he’s never been an offensive juggernaut, his ability to create value on both the basepaths and in the field makes him a useful addition to a banged-up Chicago roster.

A Glimpse at Jankowski’s Recent Seasons

Jankowski’s performance has seen its share of ups and downs in recent years.

During the 2023 season, he was part of a historic Texas Rangers squad that brought home the World Series title.

That year, his .263/.357/.332 line over 107 games highlighted his ability to deliver quality at-bats and contribute to a championship-caliber team.

However, 2024 was a different story, as his offense plummeted (.200/.266/.242), and he struggled to replicate his prior success.

The White Sox will hope that Jankowski can rediscover the form that made him a key contributor during the Rangers’ title run.

With familiar faces in Chicago’s dugout, particularly manager Will Venable—who worked with Jankowski in Texas—there’s potential for the outfielder to find his rhythm once again.

A Timely Acquisition for the White Sox

The timing of Jankowski’s signing couldn’t be better for the White Sox, who are dealing with an early-season injury crisis in their outfield.

Former All-Star Andrew Benintendi is dealing with a broken hand, while newcomer Austin Slater is nursing an oblique strain.

Both players are expected to miss Opening Day, creating a pressing need for reinforcements.

Outfield Depth Chart and Competition

Heading into the regular season, a reshuffled White Sox outfield includes Luis Robert Jr. in center—arguably their cornerstone defensively—alongside Mike Tauchman in right field.

The role of left fielder or fourth outfielder, however, remains up for grabs.

Jankowski joins a mix of candidates, including defensive-minded veteran Michael A. Taylor, vying for those remaining opportunities.

Jankowski’s speed and defensive range give him an edge, as does his ability to adapt to any outfield position.

This versatility could earn him a critical role, whether as a utility outfielder or as a steady bench option who can impact games with late-inning defensive upgrades or pinch-running duties.

How Jankowski’s Skills Fit Chicago’s Game Plan

Unlike Benintendi or Slater—both of whom bring a stronger offensive dimension—Jankowski’s game revolves around small-ball fundamentals.

His agility on the basepaths is a welcome complement to Chicago’s aggressive baserunning philosophy.

Meanwhile, his ability to track down fly balls with efficiency strengthens an already defense-oriented unit.

Challenges Ahead for Jankowski

While Jankowski’s skill set fills gaps for now, his long-term role on the team hinges on consistent performance.

To be a lasting part of Chicago’s plans, he’ll need to elevate his offensive game, which has been a limiting factor throughout his career.

Additionally, once Benintendi and Slater return, competition for playing time will ramp up significantly.

Jankowski’s minor league deal provides flexibility for the White Sox, but it also puts pressure on the veteran to prove his worth in a crowded field of contenders.

Given his recent struggles at the plate, a strong spring showing will be pivotal for him to make the Opening Day roster.

Why This Move Matters for the White Sox

The White Sox’s signing of Travis Jankowski is a deliberate response to their early-season challenges.

While his skill set won’t singlehandedly transform their fortunes, his defensive reliability and experience provide crucial safety nets during uncertain times.

New manager Will Venable’s familiarity with Jankowski could also aid the outfielder in maximizing his opportunities on the South Side.

As Chicago aims to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 campaign, depth moves like these will determine how the team weathers the inevitable ebbs and flows of a 162-game season.

If Jankowski contributes meaningfully, this low-risk addition could pay dividends for a White Sox squad seeking stability in its pursuit of contention.

 
Here is the source article for this story: White Sox Sign Travis Jankowski To Minor League Deal