The trade deadline may have passed and the season may be getting late, but that doesn’t stop MLB teams from looking for ways to bolster their roster. Rebuilding teams often promote young players during this time of year, leaving some veteran role players without a home, and contenders shake up rosters as they look for upgrades. One such shuffle led to the release of infielder Jorge Mateo earlier this week by the Atlanta Braves, and the White Sox are among the teams reportedly showing interest in signing him.
Jorge Mateo was granted his release by the Braves and is expected to sign soon, with several teams showing interest, including the White Sox and Rays, per sources.
— Francys Romero (@FrancysRomero) August 10, 2026
Mateo, 31, is a former top prospect who originally signed with the Yankees. After being moved in a couple deals, he made his big league debut for the San Diego Padres in 2020. The majority of his big league career, however, has been with the Baltimore Orioles. Known more for his speed and defense than his offensive production, Mateo spent four and a half seasons in Baltimore as a backup infielder before joining the Braves on a one-year deal this offseason. In 67 games for Atlanta, Mateo hit .240 with four home runs and a .665 OPS before being designated for assignment and granted his release earlier this week.
Jorge Mateo could fit in multiple ways with the White Sox
For the White Sox, the fit is a bit unclear. The White Sox infield is full with Murakami, Meidroth, Vargas, and Montgomery occupying the four starting spots. The fit could be as simple as Mateo replacing Luisangel Acuna on the roster, however. Acuna has been the primary backup on the infield over the past few weeks after receiving regular reps in the outfield to start the season. In 83 games this season, Acuna is hitting .243 with a .550 OPS, though his 16 stolen bases lead the White Sox. In Mateo, the White Sox would add a player that essentially plays that same role, but with a history of slightly better offensive production. Acuna’s career OPS is .599, while Mateo’s is .633. It’s not a massive difference, but the White Sox may choose the veteran who has experience and has reached the postseason.
The other possibility is Mateo simply signing a minor league deal and heading to Charlotte. The White Sox don’t have a ton of infield depth in the upper minors and Chase Meidroth has recently dealt with some wrist soreness. Mateo could be an option if the White Sox want an experienced insurance policy in case of an infield injury. With interest from multiple teams, however, it’s hard to see Mateo choosing a minor league assignment over possible big league opportunities.
With Mateo expected to sign soon, keep an eye on the White Sox here. As Chris Getz and the front office look to build a team that can reach October, Mateo’s blend of speed, defense, and veteran experience could be exactly what the White Sox need.
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