Chicago White Sox Decline $14 Million Option on Tim Anderson, Making Star Shortstop a Free Agent

All-Star shortstop released after injury-plagued seasons and a career-low performance; move marks end of an era for White Sox, sign of franchise retooling.

Two-time All-Star shortstop, Tim Anderson, has had his $14 million option for next season declined by the Chicago White Sox, rendering him a free agent. Instead, the franchise bought him out for $1 million.
After leading the majors with a .335 batting average in 2019, Anderson's performance waned due to persistent injuries, particularly a sprained left knee and right shoulder soreness.
Despite being a career .282 hitter with 98 homers, Anderson's 2023 season was his worst, hitting .245 with just one home run and having made 26 errors in 2019 and 15 in the last season.
Anderson's releasing is in line with the White Sox's shift in strategy, termed as 'Change the Game' to 'Turn the Page', alongside a change in management, with New GM Chris Getz at the helm.
The decline of Anderson's option indicates the franchise's intent to reduce its high payroll from the last season, suggesting a cost-saving move, as well as a makeover of the team's culture.