White Sox Rumors: Chicago Eyeing Mike Gonzalez, Arthur Rhodes

Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reported yesterday that the Chicago White Sox have shown interest in left-handed relievers Arthur Rhodes and Mike Gonzalez.  According to Gonzalez’s agent, Scott Boras, several teams are targeting the veteran southpaw.  In the case of Rhodes, rumors of interest have been sparse this offseason, though it continues to look as if the 42-year-old plans on extending his 20 year career for at least one more season.

Yesterday we learned that the Los Angeles Angels were still looking to add a left-handed reliever this spring.  Beyond the free agent market, we listed possible trade alternatives for the Angels to consider.  Two of the players listed are currently on the White Sox roster; Will Ohman and Matt Thornton.

So why would the White Sox be looking to add a left-handed reliever when they have two on their roster that are rumored to be available?

Ohman only has one year remaining on his current contract, and isn’t owed a ton ($2.5 million).  Thornton, however, is under team control for at least two more years with a club option for 2014 worth $6 million.  Thornton is set to make $11 million over 2012-13, and even if the White Sox decline his ’14 option they are forced to buyout his deal for $1 million.

That being said, if Chicago believes Gonzalez or Rhodes have the ability to provide comparable numbers to Thornton in 2012, and beyond in the case of Gonzalez, then they could look to add one of the free agents on the cheap while continuing to shop Thornton.

Of course, if they are unable to trade Thornton, Chicago would wind up with three non-inexpensive lefties on their roster.  The ideal situation for the Chi Sox would be lining up a trade for Thornton while at the same time reaching a handshake agreement with either Gonzo or Rhodes.

For more on the White Sox, be sure to check out Southside Showdown.

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