Drew Thorpe Injury Update: A Blow to the White Sox Rotation

Chicago White Sox prospect Drew Thorpe's path back to the mound has taken a bit of a detour. Following a promising debut and a grim season-ending injury in 2024, Thorpe now faces a setback in his recovery from elbow surgery, dealing a blow to both his and the team's 2025 season preparations.

Thorpe, acquired in the high-profile Dylan Cease trade, showed flashes of brilliance in his first MLB outings before his season was curtailed by injury. He found success early, boasting a 3.03 ERA across seven starts, but his season ended on a rough note after two disastrous outings and an injury diagnosis that led to surgery for a right forearm flexor strain and to address a bone spur in his elbow.

As Spring Training nears, Thorpe's return to the mound has hit a snag. “Everything structurally in my arm -- I got MRIs a couple of weeks ago -- everything is clean, everything is good. It’s part of the surgery process, I guess." Thorpe shared with Scott Merkin of MLB.com. 

This update comes after the pitcher was given a cortisone shot and medication to address what has been termed "residual inflammation." MRI results indicate structurally sound outcomes, yet the start of his season is postponed. According to Merkin, Thorpe hopes to begin playing catch next week but will be behind other pitchers programs at the onset of Spring Training.

This setback does not only impact Thorpe but also opens the floor for other pitchers within the White Sox organization. With names like Bryse Wilson, Sean Burke, and Mason Adams in the mix, competition for rotation spots this spring just got a little more interesting.