Introduction to the White Sox’ Pitching Strategy
The White Sox’ manager, Will Venable, has been experimenting with a unique pitching strategy, using Tyler Gilbert as a one-inning opener for the first two games of their series against the Athletics. Following Gilbert are "starters" Sean Burke and Jonathan Cannon. This approach allows the team to capitalize on favorable matchups and put their starters in a better position to succeed.
The Decision Behind the Strategy
Venable explained that the decision to use this strategy was made to put his starters in the best situation to succeed. He noted that there are times when the opposing lineup presents favorable matchups, especially with lefties at the top of the order. By using an opener, the team can capture these matchups and set up their starter for success.
Performance of Burke and Cannon
Burke and Cannon have struggled this season, with Cannon walking batters at a higher rate than last season, which has raised his pitch counts and shortened his starts. Burke, on the other hand, has struggled since pitching six scoreless innings on Opening Day against the Angels. However, in his last start against the Red Sox, Burke showed signs of improvement, allowing four runs (one earned) and five hits with five strikeouts in five innings.
Executing the Slider Key for Burke
Burke’s problem has been location, particularly with his slider, which has been hit hard by opponents. They are batting .295 against it, and a lot of Burke’s struggles have stemmed from hanging the slider too high in the zone. Against the Guardians, he got hammered because he repeatedly left the slider in the middle of the zone. He’s working to get it down more consistently. Pitching coach Ethan Katz noted that the slider is Burke’s "bread-and-butter" and that he needs to get it down and away to righties.
Improvement in Off-Speed Pitches
In Burke’s last two appearances, his off-speed pitches have improved, and he has been able to throw his curveball and slider where he wants. This improvement is crucial for Burke, who entered the season with limited experience in the majors and at Triple-A.
Opportunity to Work Through Issues
Because general manager Chris Getz didn’t sign another veteran starter outside of left-hander Martin Perez, Burke will have the opportunity to work through his issues. Though the results haven’t been as good as he would hope, he’s keeping the bigger picture in mind and focusing on learning from his mistakes.
Conclusion
The White Sox’ pitching strategy, including the use of an opener and the development of Sean Burke, is a work in progress. While Burke has struggled with location and executing his slider, he has shown signs of improvement in his last two appearances. With the opportunity to work through his issues, Burke can continue to develop and become a key contributor to the White Sox’ pitching staff.
FAQs
- What is the White Sox’ pitching strategy, and how does it work?
The White Sox are using a one-inning opener, followed by a starter, to capitalize on favorable matchups and put their starters in a better position to succeed. - What has been Sean Burke’s problem this season?
Burke’s problem has been location, particularly with his slider, which has been hit hard by opponents. - How is Burke working to improve his slider?
Burke is working to get his slider down more consistently, particularly down and away to righties. - What is the opportunity for Burke to work through his issues?
Because the White Sox didn’t sign another veteran starter, Burke will have the opportunity to work through his issues and continue to develop as a pitcher.
