White Sox Look to the Future as Davis Martin Nears Return Amidst Trade Rumors

The Chicago White Sox start a six-game road trip against the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday night. With the season lost and the trade deadline approaching, eyes have turned to the future. However, the Pale Hose have over 80 games to get through and have some help on the way. Chicago announced on Monday that they've moved starter Davis Martin's rehab assignment from the Arizona Complex League to High-A Winston-Salem.

Many may have forgotten Martin, who is recovering from Tommy John Surgery, which he underwent in May 2023. The 27-year-old pitched as a spot starter and occasional reliever in 2022, his rookie campaign. The righty compiled a 4.83 ERA and 1.29 WHIP with 48 punchouts and 19 free passes over 63.1 innings.

Prelude to a Surgery

Martin exited the 2022 season finale early with right biceps soreness after allowing nine earned runs in the abbreviated start. The righty made three starts for Triple-A Charlotte in 2023 before landing on the injured list with the dreaded forearm strain, an injury that typically foreshadows Tommy John.

The comeback trail for Martin began in February, shortly after pitchers and catchers reported to Spring Training. He pitched seven innings over three starts in the ACL and tossed three innings in a start with Winston-Salem.

What's On Tap Next?

Martin is on track for the expected second-half return, and the White Sox will have multiple vacancies in their pitching staff. Many anticipate the White Sox will trade multiple pitchers by the July 31st deadline. The Texas native, Mike Clevinger, and a few pitching prospects will be relied upon to fill innings over the season's final two months.