Michael Kopech gets emotional in his final moments with the White Sox: 'I feel like I grew up here'

Baseball has always been an emotional journey, and few have experienced that cumulative feeling like Michael Kopech during his seven years with the Chicago White Sox. In the wake of the recent trade that sent him to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Kopech shared his innermost thoughts on his time in Chicago, reflecting on the challenges, the triumphs, and his personal growth.

With a 2-8 record and a 4.74 ERA in 43 appearances this season, Michael Kopech, known for his powerful straight line, struggled out of the bullpen. Despite those numbers, his contribution to the team was significant, recording nine saves and striking out 59 batters in 43.2 innings. During a press meeting at Guaranteed Rate Field, the 28-year-old pitcher did not hesitate to call his time with the organization a “roller coaster”.

“I’ve felt all the struggles that we’ve gone through the last few years,” Michael Kopech said. “Ups and downs in terms of performance. There are some games I played there that I will never forget. A lot of games that were very important and pivotal in my career.”

“I feel like I grew up here.” he added. “I came here as a young player, I’ve got a family now and I have a little bit different perspective on the game. I’m leaving definitely a different man than I was when I came here, so, I’m very appreciative of my time here, I will never forget it, for sure.”

One of Michael Kopech’s most memorable experiences was Game 3 of the 2021 ALDS, dubbed the “Blackout” game. This historic contest holds a special place in his heart as a milestone in his development as a professional player.