Report: White Sox 'eyeing pursuits' of Salvador Perez, Whit Merrifield

Levine had the following to say in the article:

“It might start by making an offer for veteran Royals catcher Salvador Perez on the trade market and with a pursuit of second baseman/outfielder Whit Merrifield in free agency. The White Sox have discussed both of those possibilities at length, sources said.”

Both Perez and Merrifield have ties to Getz and White Sox manager Pedro Grifol. Perez played for Kansas City for the entire time Grifol was with the Royals. He was also incredibly complimentary of Grifol when Grifol was announced as the White Sox’ next manager. Meanwhile, Merrifield’s time overlapped with both Getz and Grifol from 2016-2022 as well, before moving on to Toronto this season.

Perez, 33, is an eight-time All-Star who hit .255 with 23 homers, 80 RBIs, and a meager .714 OPS in 140 games in 2023. While he has been a team icon for years, Levine says that the Royals are willing to part ways with Perez and his bloated contract. Perez is set to make $20 million in 2024 and $22 million in 2025. His contract includes a $13.5-million team option in 2026. Merrifield, 34, hit .272 with 11 homers, 67 RBIs, and a .700 OPS in 145 games in 2023. While he does have an option for 2024, he is likely to become a free agent by the time the White Sox begin their pursuit.

This is a developing article, and we will continue to provide updates.