Pedro Grifol and the players are facing added adversity early in the 2023 campaign.
The Chicago White Sox's 2023 season and training camp are in progress. There are many developing storylines surrounding the team, including the MLB's investigation into domestic abuse allegations against their newly acquired starting pitcher, Mike Clevinger. Chicago's new starter addressed the media on Wednesday, the first day of camp for pitchers and catchers. General manager Rick Hahn did the same and took his and the organization's stance on the situation.
Business as Usual
Chicago is operating with a business-as-usual mindset and has no plans to bench or release Clevinger until the league disciplines him.
"Under the terms of the collective bargaining policy, it is solely the discretion of the commissioner to discipline a player under investigation after the conclusion of an investigation," Hahn said. "At this point, the White Sox' options are the same as they have been throughout this process since Mike joined us, and that is to respect the process and the investigation and let it play out. That is the club's only option. Obviously, the confidentiality element of the investigation is essential to the success, and the strength of the policy is one that we are going to continue to respect."
Thus, the White Sox do not influence MLB's investigation, which after eight months, is still pending a decision. They have Clevinger in camp, and the White Sox company line is he is the "only option" being considered for the 5th starter's role.
The Man of the Hour
The responsibility of improving the situation falls on the veteran members of the team and, above all, Chicago's recently hired manager, Pedro Grifol—a challenging undertaking, especially given the disarray he has taken over. Nevertheless, Grifol affirmed that the accusations and inquiry would not be distracting.
"He's available right now, and if by any chance he's not available, we'll discuss that as an organization and address it then," Grifol said when asked if he has a backup plan for the rotation if the league disciplines Clevinger. "But right now, he's a part of this rotation, and we're moving forward with it."
It's yet to be determined whether addressing a backup 5th starter will be handled internally, through a trade, or via free agency. Likewise, it's still to be determined if discussions about a plan B have occurred. Of course, not considering replacement options is a cause for worry, but it's hard to imagine that Hahn and Grifol haven't thought about it.
What's On Tap Next?
The ultimate decision depends on the performances of players like Sean Burke and Davis Martin. Furthermore, Chicago will explore cost-effective options through trade or free agency.
Nevertheless, the White Sox will break camp in March with a final 26-man roster to take to Houston for game one. Therefore, it's paramount that every player handles the situation professionally behind the leadership of their new skipper. The problem will test Grifol's clubhouse leadership and the maturity of the players in 2023, with the case making national headlines. It's an unfortunate test of adversity imposed on a team with so much to overcome. The measurement of success will be the outcomes on the field.
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