The Chicago White Sox completed a really solid signing over the weekend.
They secured the services of right-handed pitcher Mike Clevinger, who had been with the San Diego Padres, to occupy a spot in the rotation.
According to The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, it’s a short-term deal for Clevinger.
“Mike Clevinger deal with #WhiteSox is 1 yr $12m guaranteed according to club source,” he tweeted.
Mike Clevinger deal with #WhiteSox is 1 yr $12m guaranteed according to club source.
— Jim Bowden⚾️🏈 (@JimBowdenGM) November 28, 2022
It’s a short-term, “prove it” deal for a man who has been injured a lot in recent seasons.
It’s important to note, however, that the White Sox’s rotation is looking really good, at least on paper.
With Cy Young candidate Dylan Cease leading the way, they also have Lance Lynn, Michael Kopech, Lucas Giolito and now Clevinger in what is looking like one of the best staffs in the American League.
Of course, they will all need to play to the top of their abilities if Chicago is going to return to the postseason, but they are certainly capable.
Still Working His Way Back From Elbow Surgery
As for Clevinger, he had a 4.33 ERA in 114.1 innings in his first season back from Tommy John surgery in 2020.
He struck out 91 hitters, as he didn’t quite get his full velocity back after surgery.
That could happen in 2023, though, and the White Sox are making a worthy gamble on a one-year deal for a pitcher who has a solid career 3.39 ERA.
The White Sox finished 81-81 in the 2022 campaign and couldn’t compete with the Cleveland Guardians in the AL Central.
They have a new manager in Pedro Grifol and will try to return to the playoffs after last season’s fiasco.
They have the weapons to compete, and the Clevinger signing certainly helps.
