Chicago White Sox: Bold predictions for spring training

4. Star prospects Eloy Jimenez, Michael Kopech impress, but start the season with Triple-A Charlotte

It’s no secret that Michael Kopech and Eloy Jimenez are close to the big leagues.

Kopech, the #10-ranked prospect by MLB.com, pitched to a 9-8 record with a 2.88 ERA with Double-A Birmingham and Triple-A Charlotte in 2017. With an 80-ranked fastball, Kopech is one of the most well-known prospects in all of baseball.

Jimenez, the #4-ranked prospect by MLB.Com, hit .312 with 19 home runs combined with three teams from High-A to Double-A in 2017. Jimenez was acquired from the Chicago Cubs in the Jose Quintana trade last July.

Both Kopech and Jimenez are among the Chicago White Sox spring-training invitees. Both at the age of 21, Kopech and Jimenez are not likely to break camp with the major league team.

But that doesn’t mean that the two won’t have an opportunity to impress. Jimenez will see plenty of at-bats against major league pitchers during the spring, and Kopech should get several starts throughout the exhibition month.

Next: Chicago Bears Draft Profile: Tremaine Edwards

Given their age and the fact that the White Sox don’t expect to contend (yet), Kopech and Jimenez both will start the season in Triple-A.

Kopech will likely get called up around June as he spent the final month of 2017 in Triple-A. Jimenez is a strong candidate to be called up in September but could see time early if he continues to impress.