A Fresh Face in Chicago
Leininger’s signature came as a surprise to many, but the timing fits a White Sox roster eager to replenish its pitching depth heading into the next season.
The 2026 campaign was nothing short of spectacular for the Toledo ace. He posted a 2.81 earned‑run average over 96 innings, striking out batters at a relentless pace and delivering seven straight wins from late February through early April.
His durability was on full display when he threw Toledo’s first nine‑inning complete game in more than five years, a feat that underscored his ability to handle heavy workloads without faltering.
Leininger also anchored a pitching staff that set and then broke the program’s single‑season strikeout record, helping the Rockets to back‑to‑back 30‑win seasons and cementing his status as the MAC Pitcher of the Year.
The White Sox are not stopping with Leininger. The club announced the addition of fellow Toledo alumni Grant Umberger and Jackson Bergman, with Umberger having set a franchise low‑A record of 113 strikeouts in a single season.
Both the front office and analysts see the trio as a potential boost to a rotation that has struggled with injuries in recent years, offering a blend of youthful vigor and proven collegiate success.
Looking Ahead
If the early signs are any indication, Chicago’s pitching staff could see a marked improvement in both ERA and strikeout rates, positioning the team for a stronger showing in the upcoming schedule.