The Chicago White Sox designated left-handed pitcher Joe Rock for assignment on Friday, clearing a spot on the 40-man roster after claiming catcher Jake Rogers off waivers from the Boston Red Sox.
Rock, who was pitching for Triple-A Charlotte at the time of the move, now faces the standard seven-day window in which the White Sox can trade him, place him on waivers, or release him.
Rock’s time with the White Sox organization was brief and marked by control issues. Acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in mid-May in exchange for minor league infielder Oliver Dunn, the 6-foot-6 southpaw made four relief appearances for Chicago earlier this season.
In 10 1/3 innings, he posted a 3.48 ERA and struck out 12 batters, but he also walked 11, contributing to a bloated 2.13 WHIP. Those struggles with command ultimately limited his opportunities at the major league level, and he was optioned back to Charlotte in late June.
The designation marks another turn in a professional journey that began with high expectations. Selected by the Colorado Rockies in the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft, 68th overall, out of Ohio University, Rock signed for a bonus just under $1 million.
The 6-foot-6 southpaw showed promise early in his minor league career before being traded to the Rays in March 2024 for outfielder Greg Jones.
With Tampa Bay, he reached the majors in 2025, making three relief appearances and posting a strong 2.35 ERA with 11 strikeouts in 7 2/3 innings. Control problems resurfaced in 2026, however, leading to the trade to Chicago.
Now 26 years old, Rock remains a relatively young arm with a history of generating strikeouts when he throws strikes. His career major league line stands at 0-1 with a 3.00 ERA and 23 strikeouts across 18 innings.
Teams seeking left-handed bullpen depth may take a look during the waiver process, particularly those willing to work with a pitcher who still has option years remaining and a track record of missing bats.
For the White Sox, the move reflects ongoing roster management as the club navigates the second half of the season.
Rogers provides catching depth after recent changes behind the plate, while Rock’s designation creates flexibility.
Whether Rock finds a new home or eventually clears waivers and returns to the White Sox system remains to be determined in the coming days.
