Chicago White Sox acquire Max Stassi from Atlanta Braves

The Chicago White Sox and Atlanta Braves are becoming frequent trade partners this off-season.

The White Sox and Braves made one of the first trades of the off-season last month when the South Siders sent relief pitcher Aaron Bummer to Atlanta in exchange for five players including second baseman Nicky Lopez and starting pitcher Mike Soroka.

On Saturday night, the White Sox and Braves had a follow-up to their previous trade.

The White Sox acquired catcher Max Stassi and cash considerations from the Braves for a player to be named later or cash considerations. Stassi was acquired by the Braves on Friday in a deal with the Los Angeles Angels.

While there is an expectation that the White Sox will move forward with Korey Lee as their starting catcher to begin the 2024 season, the team needed a veteran backup. Yasmani Grandal is no longer a member of the White Sox while Seby Zavala was claimed off waivers by the Arizona Diamondbacks last September.

Stassi is an above-average defensive catcher but offers very little for an offensive profile. Stassi slashed .180/.267/.303/.571 with the Angels last season in 375 plate appearances.

The White Sox’s addition of Stassi should be more confirmation that they will be a Triple-A team at the Major League level next season. There is nothing wrong with that assuming the plan is for a rebuild that includes a trade of starting pitcher Dylan Cease.

Speaking of Cease, the Braves and White Sox may come together for a third trade this off-season. The Braves have engaged the White Sox in trade talks for Cease but the team may be waiting to move the starting pitcher until after Yoshinobu Yamamoto signs.