Fri Jan 03 19:20:00 UTC 2025: **MLB Hot Stove: Kim’s Deadline Looms, White Sox Roster Move Imminent, and Rangers Face Owen White Decision**
**January 3, 2025 –** With the first weekend of 2025 upon us, the MLB offseason remains active. Several key storylines are developing, including the impending deadline for KBO star Hyeseong Kim to sign with an MLB team, a necessary roster move by the Chicago White Sox, and the resolution of outfielder Owen White’s designation for assignment (DFA) by the Texas Rangers.
Kim, ranked 26th on MLBTR’s Top 50 Free Agents list, has until 4:00 PM CT today to accept a contract. While a three-year, $24 million deal was predicted, a lack of recent rumors suggests a deal may not materialize. If unsigned, Kim will return to the Kiwoom Heroes, becoming an unrestricted free agent next offseason.
The White Sox, having a full 40-man roster, must clear a spot for newly-signed infielder Josh Rojas. Details of Rojas’ contract remain undisclosed. With a pitching-heavy roster, the White Sox are expected to release a pitcher to make room for Rojas.
Meanwhile, the Rangers must decide Owen White’s fate following his DFA after the signing of reliever Hoby Milner. The typical seven-day timeframe for resolving a DFA may have been extended due to the holidays, but a decision – either a trade or waivers – is expected before the weekend’s end. White, a former top prospect, has limited major league experience and only one option year remaining. His future remains uncertain.
Speculation surrounding these players and the various teams involved has been rampant in online forums and social media, with passionate debates on their potential value and fit within different organizations. However, concrete details remain scarce as the clock ticks down on key deadlines.
First Piper 