Chicago White Sox: Pitching struggles could force Kopech up early

The Chicago White Sox are off to an abysmal 4-14 start. Among the team’s many problems is pitching, as the White Sox have a team earned run average of 6.15. Can top pitching prospect Michael Kopech solve some of the South Siders’ woes?

I know what you’re thinking.

The season’s over. Trade Jose Abreu and Avisail Garcia. Fire Rick Renteria. Start this thing over.

Yes, the Chicago White Sox are off to a disappointing start to say the least. At 4-14, the White Sox are the worst team in the American League and have lost seven straight.

The rotation has been a disaster. With a team ERA of 6.15, White Sox starters have done little to keep the team in games. White Sox pitchers have walked 93 batters — the most among American League teams.

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The lineup has been pretty bad too, as White Sox hitters are batting a combined .225 on the year.

The bullpen has been a mess, as the White Sox have blown multiple leads in the later innings. The bullpen was never expected to be anything special to begin with, but production was expected from the relievers coming into the season. However, little has been accomplished.

Despite the disastrous start, things will be getting better.

Carlos Rodon could be back in less than a month, and has reportedly started pitching in extended spring training games.

The return of Rodon will be huge for the White Sox rotation. The current rotation should start to improve instantaneously, but the boost given by the addition of Carlos Rodon will be a huge lift.

Another thing that should improve soon is hitting. As Hawk Harrelson always says, “Hitting is contagious”. It’s only a matter of time until the guys start raking like normal, and with the runs will come wins without a doubt.

But, the biggest fix could be miles east in Charlotte. Top pitching prospect Michael Kopech is waiting in the wings in Triple-A, and would provide a big boost to the energy and production of the club.

Kopech is 0-1 with a 2.40 ERA in his first three starts with Charlotte this season. Kopech has fanned 21 batters in 15 innings, while walking just five.

Additionally, the hard-throwing righty has allowed just 13 hits on the year, and no home-runs. The consistency and electricity of the young 21-year-old would be a much-needed element for the White Sox.

While Kopech realistically will probably be called up about a month from now, if the pitching struggles continue (and lets hope they don’t), the White Sox could call up Kopech as soon as next week.

The deadline for calling up players not currently on the 40-man roster while losing a year of control has passed, so the White Sox would not be making any sort of long-term sacrifice by bringing Kopech up to the big leagues.

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Yes, its early. In my opinion, it’s still too early to panic. I know we hear that a lot, but come on. Its not even May yet.

Better things are coming on the South Side. Patience is a virtue, so White Sox fans should just sit back and “Trust the Process” for now.