The White Sox will consider dealing outfielder Alex Rios this winter, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Phil Rogers.
The team already has $80.75 million committed to players for next season. The figure includes buying out Jake Peavy, Kevin Youkilis and Brett Myers. If the team picks up pitcher Gavin Floyd’s option, which they’ll likely do if they let Peavy walk, that number jumps to $90.25 million for next season.
That doesn’t include Gordon Beckham, Alejandro De Aza or Philip Humber, all of whom are arbitration eligible this winter. Outfielder Dayan Viciedo also needs a new deal.
In order to cut payroll, the team might have to consider dealing Rios. While Rios is coming off a strong season, in which he hit .304/.334/.516, he won’t come cheap. Rios is set to make $13 million in each of the next two seasons. Due to a clause in his contract, that salary will rise by $500,000 if he’s traded.
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