Expectations were low when the Chicago White Sox signed outfielder Randal Grichuk on May 4.

Grichuk had struggled in 2025, posting a .228/.273/.401 batting line in his 293 plate appearances between the Diamondbacks and Royals, hitting nine homers and 18 doubles, with most of that damage coming during his time in Arizona. Those struggles, especially down the stretch with the Royals, led to Grichuk receiving a minor league contract with the Yankees.

Although Grichuk was a part of the Yankees' Opening Day roster, he did not last long in New York. Grichuk posted a disappointing .194/.212/.323 batting line in 33 plate appearances for the Yankees, hitting four doubles. He was designated for assignment on April 29 and released two days later.

Randal Grichuk another example of Chicago White Sox's unexpected success

Then Grichuk signed with the White Sox. He has been a revelation in Chicago, posting a .333/.368/.694 batting line in his 38 plate appearances entering Friday, with four homers and a double. He has carved out a role with the White Sox and has reestablished himself as a dangerous platoon bat against left-handed pitching.

The White Sox have been one of the biggest surprises in baseball over the first two months, entering Friday with a 29-27 record. Pitcher Davis Martin is performing at ace levels, while infielders Munetaka Murakami, Miguel Vargas and Colson Montgomery are establishing themselves as part of the White Sox core. Adding players such as Grichuk have helped supplement that core, leading to an unexpectedly dangerous team.

Grichuk has been able to rebuild his career with the White Sox. He is the latest surprise in what has been an unexpected season in Chicago.