Ranking the Chicago White Sox Off-Season Moves
By Jeremy Karll
Mat Latos Signed to a One-year, $3 Million Deal
The White Sox have four left-handers in their rotation for the second straight season. With the loss of Jeff Samardzija, Erik Johnson was set to take over the fifth spot in the rotation as the lone right-hander for the White Sox. However, the Sox ended up signing Mat Latos to a one-year deal, making him their final starter in the rotation.
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Latos dealt with a lot of injuries last season, and pitched for three teams as well. In 24 appearances, and 21 starts, he compiled a 4-10 record with a 4.95 ERA, the worst of his career, in 116.1 innings pitched. The White Sox have an act of signing aging veterans past their prime, however, that’s not the case for Latos.
In 2010, Latos finished eighth in Cy Young voting with the San Diego Padres, recording a 14-10 record and a career-best 2.92 ERA in 184.2 innings pitched. Latos has the talent to be solid middle of the rotation pitcher in the majors, but injuries over the past two seasons has derailed him.
He is not a pitcher who will eat up innings, only eclipsing the 200 inning mark twice in his career, but will give a team close to 20 quality starts a year when healthy. Besides, you’re only looking for a solid five to six innings from the fifth guy in your rotation. He also has good command, but doesn’t strikeout guys at a magnificent rate. Although, Latos is capable of recording close to 190 strikeouts if he’s able to stay healthy.
Just like every free-agent signing the Sox signed this year, health is the main concern. Latos is clearly a better option than Eric Johnson, and could end up being a steal for only $3 million. He wasn’t healthy last season, which hurt his stock, but he’s in another contract year and will be trying to show his worth. There’s a lot worse options the Sox, or any team, could have late in their rotation. Latos isn’t a 20-game winner, but he’s someone who you can put on the mound and not worry about him getting rocked. Besides, it’s not like Samardzija was the most consistent pitcher last season.
Next: Number 2: Brett Lawrie Trade