Potential Pitching Options for Chicago White Sox from Minor Leagues

Drew Thorpe demonstrated impressive skills on Tuesday. He allowed one hit and struck out four over five scoreless innings against Triple-A Buffalo. Thorpe is on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Charlotte. He could be a potential option for the Chicago White Sox, especially as the team looks for pitching assistance from the minors.

Manager Will Venable expressed optimism about the potential contributions from the minor league players. Venable emphasizes the importance of maintaining depth and ensuring readiness for when pitching needs arise.

“I very much think that there’s a number of guys down there that are going to be helpful for us at some point here,” Venable said.

Thorpe’s journey back from Tommy John surgery has seen him make several starts across different levels, including the Arizona Complex League Sox and High A Winston-Salem. He has accumulated a 2.70 ERA with 35 strikeouts in 36 2/3 innings. His time with the Knights saw him record a 2.55 ERA.

Paul Janish, Director of Player Development, shared insights on Thorpe’s progress. He noted Thorpe’s consistency in throwing, recovering, and pitching well.

“The biggest thing with Drew, coming off the injury, is just the fact that he’s consistently throwing, recovering, going back out there,” Janish said.

Thorpe’s physical health has reached the necessary point, according to Janish, though there must be caution due to his recovery from surgery.

Noah Schultz, a 2022 first-round pick, has also been part of the conversation. He was called up from Charlotte in April but returned after posting a 6.06 ERA in 15 appearances. His recent performance in Charlotte included a 1.04 ERA in September starts.

David Sandlin has had a challenging season with a 6.93 ERA in five major league outings. His recent performance with the Knights shows promise, highlighted by a 5 2/3 innings stint with 11 strikeouts.

Janish emphasized the adaptability of these pitchers.

“When you think about a Noah Schultz or a David Sandlin, they’re obviously starting in Charlotte, but if the opportunity presents itself and they come here, it’s very reasonable…they would pitch in a bulk role, potentially start as well,” Janish stated.

The overall strategy is to be ready to adapt to major league needs. Any pitcher on the 40-man roster must be mentally prepared to step in when required.