The White Sox continue to show interest in pitcher Jeff Samardzija.
After picking up the right hander in a mid-season trade with the Cubs last season the Athletics have made him available this offseason.
Bob Nighengale of USA Today reports that the talks between the White Sox and Athletics have become serious and that they could be considered the front runners. It is unclear what the White Sox would have to give up though Marcus Semien and Tim Anderson are two options.
Set to become a free agent at the end of the 2015 season, Samardzija is coming off his best season after posting a 2.99 ERA in 219 2/3 innings of work.
The Chicago #Whitesox are looming as the #frontrunner to acquire #Athletics ace Jeff Samardzija after the clubs engaged in serious talks
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 8, 2014
Another player the White Sox continue to show interest in is former Yankees closer David Robertson.
The Yankees remain open to signing Robertson but after adding Andrew Miller they will only do so if his price drops. It is aid that Roberterson has a four-year deal of $40 million on the table but he is still seeking more.
Robertson is tied to draft pick compensation but the White Sox’s pick is protected due to their poor 2014 season.
George King III reports that the White Sox are not afraid of paying what Roberterson is asking because “They like him a lot and he is definitely on their radar.’’
The Astros and Blue Jays are other options for Roberterson.
