About this episode
Chicago White Sox fans are buzzing as Munetaka Murakami faces high expectations—could he become Rookie of the Year and spark an All-Star resurgence on the South Side?
Host Todd Welter explores Murakami’s odds, the impact of power hitters like Braden Montgomery, and the latest projections for young stars Noah Schultz, Tanner McDougal, and Hagen Smith. With FanDuel odds, service time strategy, and a potential wave of breakout talent, the White Sox’s roster moves raise tantalizing possibilities for 2026.
Todd Welter evaluates Chris Getz’s surprising approval among White Sox supporters, breaks down Rule 5 luck with arms like Shane Smith and Mike Vassel, and shares fan poll results on Montgomery’s roster fate and Shane Smith trade scenarios. Topics include MLB Pipeline farm system updates, bullpen optimism, and coping with the Jason Benetti drama. Can this revamped squad finally return to contender status—or is another rebuild looming?
00:00 Murakami Rookie of the Year Odds
Discussion of Munetaka Murakami’s AL Rookie of the Year candidacy, potential impact, and comparison to other White Sox prospects.
13:19 Rule 5 Draft Luck Running Out
Analysis of White Sox Rule 5 picks Paez and Alberto, struggles in spring training, and the broader implications for the team’s talent pipeline.
21:33 Fan Poll Friday Results & Front Office Confidence
Breakdown of recent fan polls, including sentiments on Chris Getz, Brayden Montgomery’s start location, Shane Smith trade opinions, and bullpen optimism
Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonwhitesox.supercast.com
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
PlayStation
This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.
Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to bo
