Hahn feels good about Sox’ week
LAS VEGAS — Here’s the summary of what the White Sox accomplished at the winter meetings: They acquired a proven starting pitcher and created a whole lot of buzz about outfielder Bryce Harper.
The latter is all anyone is talking about, but the former addressed an immediate need, of which there are more to deal with before pitchers and catchers report to spring training Feb. 13.
‘‘We made some progress on different fronts,’’ general manager Rick Hahn said before heading to the airport Thursday. ‘‘We obviously talked about some of the other needs we had. You saw [Wednesday] the bullpen market started moving. Perhaps there will be something along those lines in the coming days — catching, as well. And then, obviously, we still need to figure out the outfield situation.
‘‘It’s a productive week in terms of talks, both with free agents and other clubs. We’ll go back to Chicago and regroup [Friday] and get back after it.’’
A catcher to complement Welington Castillo, bullpen help and perhaps another starter — right-hander Ivan Nova was acquired from the Pirates for a minor prospect and internationalpool cash Tuesday — are on the docket. Jeurys Familia agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract with the Mets and Joe Kelly toa three-year, $25 million deal with the Dodgers to get the bullpen market moving.
As for Harper and infielder Manny Machado — both are on the Sox’ list of mega-priced freeagent objectives, although Harper appears to be the top priority — their destinations might not be determined for weeks.
‘‘You can’t really force the timing of it,’’ Hahn said. ‘‘Sometimes it happens [at the winter meetings], and sometimes it takes a little bit deeper into the offseason.’’
Harper watch
As for the pursuit of Harper, Hahn knows the bottom line is dollars for a record contract. But he also knows many things factor into a player’s decision.
‘‘A wife’s family’s location, family preference, spring training, all sorts of factors that come into this decision at the end,’’ he said. ‘‘All we can do is put our best foot forward.’’
Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf ’s presence at the meetings seemed to suggest the Sox are serious about their pursuit.
Hahn acknowledged ‘‘the excitement’’ and ‘‘fever pitch’’ at the meetings.
‘‘It’s good to have a seat at the table on some large, impactful moves,’’ he said.
Rule 5 draft
The Sox drafted right-hander Jordan Romano from the Blue Jays with the third pick in the Rule 5 draft and traded him to the Rangers for cash considerations.
They didn’t lose Class AAA right-hander Zach Thompson, as they feared they might.