Only months ago, Gage Workman was living his dream, thrilled to be selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 2024 Rule 5 Draft. Joining a historic franchise felt surreal — an incredible opportunity for the young infielder. But baseball can be brutally fast in changing fortunes. After a rough stretch, Workman’s time in Cubbie blue ended almost as quickly as it began. Following a surprising crosstown trade, Cubs manager Craig Counsell offered more insight into the tough situation surrounding Workman’s brief stint.
Craig Counsell speaks on the Cubs trading Rule 5 pick Gage Workman to the White Sox. pic.twitter.com/obToNIhOu8
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) April 26, 2025
The Cubs picked up Workman from the Detroit Tigers in December 2024. After an impressive showing in spring training, where he earned a spot on the Opening Day roster, expectations were high. The 25-year-old made his MLB debut on March 29, but the regular season proved challenging. Workman hit just .214 over 14 at-bats in nine games and committed three errors at third base, including two costly ones in a game against the Dodgers on April 22. The next day, he was designated for assignment and traded to the Chicago White Sox for cash on April 26.
Speaking after the trade, Counsell was candid about the situation. “I think Gage was in a tough spot,” Counsell said via Marquee Sports Network. “Rule 5 picks are always in a tough spot, especially on this team.” He admitted that while Workman didn’t really get a full opportunity to settle in, the Cubs’ win-now mentality made patience a luxury they couldn’t afford.
Workman certainly earned his shot after a red-hot spring. He led the Cubs in several offensive categories during Cactus League play, batting .364 with four homers, 15 RBIs, and posting an impressive 1.125 OPS. Counsell praised his maturity and resilience, suggesting that Workman handled the pressure as well as anyone could.
Ultimately, roster needs dictated the decision. With the Cubs pushing for a playoff spot and loaded with veteran infielders like Justin Turner, Jon Berti, and recent addition Nicky Lopez, there simply wasn’t room for a developing rookie to learn on the fly — particularly under the constraints that come with Rule 5 selections.
A Tale of Two Cities: Cubs’ Ambitions vs. White Sox’s Rebuild
Before hitting the big leagues, Workman had steadily climbed the baseball ladder. After being drafted out of Arizona State by the Tigers in 2020, he put up strong numbers in the minors, including a breakout 2024 season at Double-A Erie where he batted .280 with 18 homers, 89 RBIs, and 30 stolen bases.
Now, Workman finds himself with the rebuilding White Sox, a team that can afford to be patient. With injuries and struggles plaguing the South Siders’ infield, including Miguel Vargas’ inconsistency and Josh Rojas’ injury, there’s real opportunity for Workman to carve out playing time. For a White Sox team needing depth and upside, Workman’s power and versatility could prove valuable.
This crosstown move underscores the very different realities facing Chicago’s two baseball teams: the Cubs, a contender focused on the present, and the White Sox, a team looking to build for the future. Moving Workman was a strategic choice for both sides — but now, the question remains: Will Gage Workman thrive with his second chance on the South Side?