Manager Tony La Russa said Saturday that he expects Kimbrel to be on the White Sox's Opening Day roster, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Kimbrel's team option for the 2022 season was picked up in early November, but he's still been linked to trade discussions during the offseason. While a trade would likely bolster Kimbrel's fantasy value since the White Sox also have Liam Hendriks in the bullpen, he received a vote of confidence from La Russa as major-league spring training gets underway. After joining the White Sox prior to the trade deadline, the right-hander converted just one of four save opportunities with seven holds while posting a 5.09 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 23 innings across 24 appearances. However, he was electric with the Cubs earlier in the year, converting 23 of 25 save chances with a 0.49 ERA and 0.71 WHIP in 36.2 innings. Despite his late-season struggles in 2021, Kimbrel would likely have plenty of job security as another team's closer if the White Sox reverse course and decide to trade him.