White Sox Rotation Faces Challenges as Season Progresses

Chicago White Sox starter Sean Burke encountered difficulties earlier this August. He struggled physically during the game on August 16 against Detroit. ‘Probably the worst I felt physically,’ Burke shared, describing a ‘dead-arm’ feeling rather than acute pain. Working with trainers and the strength staff, Burke made adjustments to improve his condition for pitching days. His recent start against the New York Mets resulted in a significant recovery, as he reported feeling ‘really good again.’ Burke is set to pitch in the series finale against the Texas Rangers on Wednesday.

Maintaining a healthy and effective pitching rotation is crucial for the White Sox as they compete for a division title. Ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Rangers, the team led the Cleveland Guardians by 2.5 games in the American League Central. Manager Will Venable discussed the ups and downs of pitching throughout the season. ‘Sometimes you feel confident with your pitching staff and other times instability creeps in,’ Venable explained. ‘Our focus remains on finding a way to win each game.’

The White Sox rank last in the majors for innings pitched by starters, with 561 innings, due in part to occasionally using an opener. Consequently, the bullpen frequently shoulders a heavy workload. For instance, on Monday, José Urquidy allowed five runs over three innings, leading to an 11-2 loss to the Rangers. Urquidy issued four walks and hit two batters. It marked the second occurrence in three games of a starter failing to reach the fourth inning. Luis Castillo had an even shorter outing, conceding four runs in 2 2/3 innings during a 10-5 loss to the Mets. Castillo has struggled with a 5.89 ERA since joining the team in a trade on August 1.

Anthony Kay has been a standout performer for the Sox this month. The left-hander entered Tuesday’s game with a 2.66 ERA across his last four starts, tallying 17 strikeouts and four walks over 23 2/3 innings. Kay managed to pitch at least six innings in three of those four outings. Despite a mixed performance against the Mets, where Burke allowed four runs in six innings but recorded no walks and maintained strong command, he took positives from the game. ‘If I can deliver six innings, no walks, and a high strike rate, I consider it promising,’ Burke stated.

Beyond traditional starters, players like Urquidy and Fedde have contributed as bulk pitchers. Although Fedde began the season starting, he transitioned to the bullpen earlier this month. In his last two appearances following an opener, Fedde managed 8 2/3 scoreless innings. Urquidy also excelled in a relief role against the Cubs on August 19, striking out eight hitters and allowing just two hits over six innings. However, during Monday’s start, Urquidy faced challenges, throwing 93 pitches in three innings.

The White Sox have adjusted their rotation due to Davis Martin’s absence. Sidelined with a blister on his right middle finger, Martin has been on the injured list since August 14. Despite rotational changes, the team remains focused. ‘We are concentrating on how to succeed today,’ Venable emphasized.

Sox place reliever Huáscar Brazobán on the IL

Reliever Huáscar Brazobán has been placed on the 15-day injured list following a left lat strain. This move was announced before Tuesday’s game. Jonathan Cannon was recalled from Triple-A Charlotte to fill the roster spot. Brazobán, acquired in a trade from the New York Mets, has posted a 6.30 ERA in 10 relief appearances. Additionally, the White Sox placed outfielder Andrew Benintendi on the bereavement/family medical emergency list. Infielder/outfielder Rikuu Nishida was recalled from Charlotte to step in.