Breaking: The White Sox’s bullpen on Opening Day will feature an unexpected addition…

Breaking: The White Sox’s bullpen on Opening Day will feature an unexpected addition…

During Spring Training, a major focus has been on securing the final spots in the bullpen, especially after the White Sox traded away several key relievers last summer. General Manager Chris Getz bolstered the bullpen by acquiring relievers like Tim Hill and John Brebbia through free agency, both of whom are expected to start the season with the team. Additionally, Getz brought in potential bullpen options via trades and signed multiple non-roster pitchers to compete for the remaining spots.

However, a surprising development is the inclusion of Michael Kopech in the bullpen, as announced recently. This decision is somewhat unexpected, particularly given the team’s rotation changes. The White Sox had high hopes for Kopech to excel in the starting rotation this year, but his performance during Spring Training has been disappointing, with a 7.71 ERA in 7 innings, along with 6 walks and 2 hit batters, indicating ongoing control issues from last season.

Now, Kopech may transition to a closing role, especially since there’s uncertainty surrounding that position following the trade of Gregory Santos. Pitching coach Ethan Katz sees this as an opportunity for Kopech to potentially take on the closer role.

Aside from Kopech, it’s likely that Brebbia and Hill will also be in the bullpen, leaving five spots up for grabs. One can assume that Garrett Crochet will start in the bullpen, leaving four vacancies. Certain players like Alex Speas, Bailey Horn, Shane Drohan, and Prelander Berrora are unlikely to make the Opening Day roster due to various reasons such as demotion, injury, or ongoing recovery.

Potential candidates like Jordan Leasure and Deivi Garcia have performed well during Spring Training and are likely choices for the bullpen. Additionally, the acquisition of Steven Wilson through the Dylan Cease trade adds depth to the bullpen competition, with Tanner Banks also being a strong contender, particularly due to his left-handedness and ability to pitch multiple innings.

This would result in a bullpen comprising Michael Kopech, Garrett Crochet, John Brebbia, Tim Hill, Jordan Leasure, Deivi Garcia, Steven Wilson, and Tanner Banks. While this bullpen is promising, it’s important to note that it’s not yet finalized, and changes may occur based on how the rotation shapes up and ongoing performances in Spring Training.

The rotation situation remains fluid, with around 10 players still in contention. As Spring Training enters its final weeks, there’s anticipation for further unexpected moves by the White Sox before Opening Day.”