Davis Martin Posts Encouraging First Rehab Start

Martin has not pitched in an MLB game since August 13 against the Cincinnati Reds, when he was ejected in the third inning after throwing two pitches up and in at NL Rookie of the Year hopeful Sal Stewart. The next day, Martin was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right middle finger blister.

Martin’s start against Cincinnati was the culmination of a turbulent two-and-a-half-month stretch. He went 1-5 with a 7.06 ERA and 1.73 WHIP over his last 13 starts before landing on the injured list.

Those numbers are a significant regression from Martin’s first 11 starts, when he looked primed for an AL All-Star selection. Through May, Martin owned an impressive 8-1 record, 2.00 ERA, and 0.99 WHIP, while holding opposing hitters to a minuscule .215 batting average.

The home run ball, in particular, has been an issue for Martin as the season has progressed. He has allowed nine home runs since June 2 after giving up just three through his first 11 starts.

Walks have also increased, as Martin has walked 25 hitters compared to 40 strikeouts over his last 13 starts. Across his first 11 starts, Martin posted 71 strikeouts against just 14 walks.

However, Martin’s rehab start on Thursday saw him return to his early-season form. The White Sox could sorely use the Martin that dazzled on Thursday and during the early portion of 2026.

Since the calendar flipped to August, Chicago’s starters have posted a 5.94 ERA. That mark is the third-worst in the majors during that span, only behind the Athletics (6.16) and the Colorado Rockies (7.02).

It also won’t do the White Sox any favors as they chase their first American League Central division title since 2021.

If Martin returns and pitches as he did through May, Chicago’s starting rotation will get a major boost. Drew Thorpe could also factor into the mix down the stretch and make his first MLB appearance since 2024. He is scheduled for his fourth rehab start with Triple-A Charlotte on Sunday as he continues to work his way back from Tommy John surgery.

Entering Saturday, the White Sox (71-63) own a 3.5-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians (68-67) atop the American League Central. Chicago is winning the season series against Cleveland 6-4, but still has one more series against the Guardians on the road from September 14-16.

The White Sox continue their series with the Minnesota Twins on Saturday at 2:10 p.m. ET.