It's been a long and winding journey since the Chicago White Sox acquired Michael Kopech in 2016, and his journey on the South Side may be reaching its conclusion. Despite flashes of brilliance, his 2023 season, marred by injuries and command issues, was dismal. The native Texan led MLB in walks and twice landed on the injured list.
The 27-year-old experienced challenges and successes this past season. Like several teammates, he struggled on the mound during April, ending the month with an ERA exceeding seven. However, a positive turn occurred in Kopech's subsequent 11 starts as he posted a 2.83 ERA across 60.1 innings. Still, control problems persisted during this phase despite this improvement, demonstrated by the 33 walks he issued.
The Beginning of The End
That stretch ended after a June 27 start against the Los Angeles Angels, and Kopech landed on the IL with shoulder inflammation. He returned on July 14, and his season deteriorated from that point.
In late August, Kopech had to leave a start against the Seattle Mariners due to leg cramps.
Kopech lasted only four and 1.2 innings, respectively, in his following two starts before being lifted. He walked nine hitters across those shortened outings.
Afterward, the White Sox relegated the righty to a multi-inning relief role. The situation didn't improve for Kopech in the bullpen, where he posted a 14.73 ERA in 3.2 innings over four appearances. The second stint on the IL ended his season in September with surgery required to remove a cyst from his knee.
What's On Tap Next?
Kopech faced challenges staying on the field for the second consecutive year and grappled with control issues when he was healthy. As he gears up for another chance to secure a spot as a starting pitcher in Spring Training, the leash should be short, considering he's already had ample time to establish himself in that role.
Given Kopech's extensive injury history, there's a growing inclination that he's better suited for a bullpen role. His pitches could shine in shorter outings, but the critical hurdle is addressing his control issues. Despite the White Sox providing him with numerous opportunities to succeed, Kopech's tenure on the South Side may end if he fails to turn things around in 2024.
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