The Chicago White Sox dropped their fifth straight game with a shutout loss to the Kansas City Royals on Monday. In the three-game series opener, the Pale Hose notched four hits, all of which were singles, and one walk. The 2-0 loss dropped them to 2-14 and marked their sixth shutout defeat of the season.
The South Siders have hit a historic low regarding their record, and their offense is primarily why. After the loss, they joined the 1907 Brooklyn Superbas as the only teams in baseball history to be shut out six times in their first 16 games.
Despite the team's struggles, there was a shining moment for the White Sox. Rookie starter Nick Nastrini, making his MLB debut, showcased his potential. He allowed two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out five in his five innings of work before being relieved by Dominic Leone.
Nastrini Shines
The young righty retired the first 11 hitters he faced before surrendering a long home run to slugger Vinnie Pasquantino. Nastrini escaped a jam in the fifth, leaving the bases loaded, but not before Kyle Isbel drove in Nick Loftin. Loftin singled and advanced to second on Adam Frazier's walk.
The relief crew of Leone, Jordan Leasure, Steven Wilson, and Michael Kopech held the Royals to two hits and two walks over the final four innings. Leasure hasn't allowed a run in 6.1 innings pitched, while Leone has rebounded from early struggles. Kopech and Wilson sport ERAs below two.
News and Notes
The White Sox activated Eloy Jimenez from the injured list before the game and optioned Zach Remillard to make room on the active roster. Max Stassi landed on the 60-day IL, and Chicago sent down Justin Anderson to make room for Nastrini.
Jimenez pinch-hit with two outs in the ninth and struck out to end the game.
The White Sox finalized a deal with veteran outfielder Tommy Pham. The minor-league pact includes a provision that allows Pham to opt out if he isn't added to the active roster by April 25. He'll earn $3 million and $1.5 million in potential incentives.
What's On Tap Next?
The White Sox look to snap their five-game losing streak with another rookie on the mound. Per reports, Jonathan Cannon will start for the Pale Hose in game two of the series. The Royals will counter with Brady Singer, who has an ERA below one thus far. Tuesday's first pitch is at 6:40 PM CT and the game will air on NBC Sports Chicago.
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