Chicago White Sox DFA Former Top Prospect
From Fenway Power to Uncertain Future
Dalbec made waves as a rookie in 2020, blasting eight home runs in just 23 games and thrilling Red Sox fans with his raw power. But strikeout issues quickly caught up to him. From 2022 onward, he found himself shuttling between Boston and Triple-A Worcester, unable to sustain any momentum at the big league level. His power remained evident in the minors, but a ballooning strikeout rate—37.5% since 2022—became a glaring issue.
Hello Nationals fans. May I present to you a younger, more versatile, athletic, more disciplined, player than Josh Bell? Bobby Dalbec. pic.twitter.com/inRmgbB3vl
— Bobby Dalbec’s #1 Fan (@bobbbydmvp) May 4, 2025
The White Sox offered him a fresh start, and Dalbec was promoted from Triple-A Charlotte in late April. Unfortunately, his offensive struggles followed him. His .222/.333/.278 slash line with six strikeouts in seven games didn’t give Chicago enough reason to keep him around once they activated infielder Josh Rojas from the injured list. “We’re committed to winning,” said team president Chris Young recently about other moves. “The players that are performing are going to get playing time.”
What Comes Next for Dalbec?
Dalbec’s DFA makes room for the newly reinstated Rojas and rising right-hander Caleb Freeman, who was selected from Charlotte. If Dalbec goes unclaimed on waivers, he could return to Triple-A—though as a player who has already been outrighted in his career, he may elect free agency instead.
Bobby Dalbec on the 2025 Sox would be one of the moves of all time pic.twitter.com/Kb3T6flsY2 https://t.co/3nobRxbWwv
— Rob (@rob_thibeault) May 4, 2025
Photo Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images