Dodgers News: Former Prospect Jacob Amaya Claimed by White Sox

In a season that has seen former Los Angeles Dodgers prospect Jacob Amaya bounced around from team to team, the Chicago White Sox have now claimed the infielder off waivers from the Houston Astros.

Amaya, who began his 2023 journey with the Miami Marlins, has experienced more roster changes than he has home runs this year, landing with his fourth organization as the White Sox look to bolster their depth in a challenging season.

Jacob Amaya’s 2023 season has been a rollercoaster of trades, assignments, and now, yet another claim off waivers. Initially drafted by the Dodgers in the 11th round of the 2017 draft, Amaya was known for his defensive abilities and steady infield presence. However, his path has been anything but steady this year.

Amaya started the season with the Marlins’ Triple-A Jacksonville affiliate, where he displayed solid offensive numbers, hitting .252 with 15 home runs and 65 RBIs in 128 games. But after just three games into the 2023 season, the Marlins designated Amaya for assignment, leaving him in limbo and literally stranded in a hotel room in Durham, N.C., for a week, awaiting his next move.

On April 6, Amaya’s uncertainty was partially resolved when Marlins general manager Peter Bendix called to inform him of a trade to the Houston Astros. The deal sent Amaya to Houston in exchange for minor league pitcher Valente Bellozo and some cash.

Amaya's time with the Astros, however, was brief and largely uneventful. In 73 games at Triple-A Sugar Land, he managed a .221 batting average with five home runs and 32 RBIs, while splitting time between second base, shortstop, and occasionally third base.

Despite the modest numbers, Amaya's experience with the Astros included a single game appearance in the majors, serving as a defensive replacement. This marked a small but notable moment for Amaya, who had made his major league debut with the Marlins in 2023, albeit in just four games.

When the Astros designated Amaya for assignment once again, the Chicago White Sox saw an opportunity to add a versatile infielder to their struggling roster. The White Sox, currently holding the worst record in Major League Baseball, claimed Amaya off waivers, offering him another chance to prove himself on the big stage.

Amaya, who joined the White Sox on Tuesday, is approaching this latest chapter with optimism.

"I want to come in here every day and do the right things and go out there and produce," Amaya said , expressing his determination to make an impact for his new team. "Make some plays for whoever is on the mound and just show up."

With the White Sox facing a tough road ahead, Amaya’s presence could bring some much-needed stability to their infield. His defensive skills, honed during his time with the Dodgers, could prove valuable as Chicago looks to rebuild and find any silver linings in an otherwise challenging season.

Jacob Amaya’s journey through the 2023 season has been marked by uncertainty and frequent changes, but his latest move to the Chicago White Sox offers a new opportunity to showcase his talents. As the White Sox continue to navigate a difficult season, Amaya’s experience and defensive prowess could be a key asset as they look to the future.