Chicago White Sox: 3 moves to fix pitching staff
The Chicago White Sox pitching staff has been anything but stellar in 2019. With the team looking to rebuild, how can they improve their below average pitching staff?
Everyone knew that losing Michael Kopech was going to be a big blow the Chicago White Sox 2019 chances. However, looking back at the offseason, I wonder if their pitching staff was a reason Manny Machado chose the San Diego Padres over Chicago. I know, I know, that is blasphemy, but that is just how bad this pitching staff has been this year.
Two of the current pitchers were supposed to be better than currently advertised. Lucas Giolitio had great potential and was one of three pitching prospects the White Sox received when they traded away leadoff man Adam Eaton. Also in the deal was Reynaldo Lopez and Dane Dunning.
Giolito and Lopez are a part of the current rotation and well, things do not look very prosperous for these guys’ future. Lopez has looked downright awful this season. He is not even tradable at this point. Giolito has not been much better (although had his start Tuesday was fantastic). Combined they have an average ERA of nearly 6.00. What’s worse is the average ERA of the White Sox starting rotation is nearly 7.00.
Not to mention, the pitcher having the most consistent season for the White Sox thus far is Carlos Rodon who is likely getting Tommy John surgery now. With how the White Sox have been playing offensively, and how weak their division seems to be, this team could be competing for the AL Central if not for how bad their pitching has been.
White Sox: Boston Series Recap. light. Related Story
This is not just a starter problem either. Their bullpen has been atrocious as well. Outside of Alex Colome at closer, none of the relievers are under a 3.00 ERA. As a team in whole, the White Sox have a collective 5.67 ERA. This is currently last in MLB. They are 20th in runs and that is with having to deal with some injuries, including to potential future superstar Eloy Jimenez.
That is not great offensive production, but if their pitching was at least respectable, this team would be over .500 for the season and competing in the division. Rick Hahn needs to fix this pitching staff, but how can he go about doing it? And can he do it this season?