The Chicago White Sox announced a roster move Sunday by sending Jared Shuster to Triple-A Charlotte. Shuster remains a member of the 40-man roster, and the White Sox now have 49 players on their Spring Training roster.
Shuster came to the White Sox in an offseason trade that sent lefty reliever Aaron Bummer to the Atlanta Braves. Despite lackluster results in Triple-A, Shuster progressed through two minor-league levels in 2021 and 2022. After an impressive Spring Training in 2023, he earned a spot in Atlanta's Opening Day starting rotation.
An Easy Decision
However, after two starts, the Braves sent the lefty down to their affiliate in Gwinnett. Shuster's 2023 season in the minors went poorly compared to the prior year as he compiled 5.01 ERA in 79 innings. Atlanta called on him twice to make spot starts, and one stint lasted through most of June.
The Massachusetts native made 11 starts in the big leagues and pitched to a 5.81 ERA last season. Furthermore, the peripheral stats confirmed his impressive Spring Training performance — 1.74 ERA over 20.2 innings — proved to be a mirage.
Shuster's spring results with the White Sox were dreadful. He allowed 10 earned runs over 4.2 innings in two appearances, making his demotion to the minors a no-brainer.
What's On Tap Next?
The move is necessary but concerning regarding the return the Pale Hose received for Bummer. General manager Chris Getz previously noted that he "anticipates" Shuster and Mike Soroka, also included in the trade, competing for a rotation spot, and was "confident" one or both of them would end up in the starting staff.
Nevertheless, the White Sox are providing the 25-year-old the opportunity to prove he belongs in their big-league rotation. With inevitable injuries and a lack of serviceable depth, Shuster will likely make spot starts for Chicago in 2024.
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