White Sox Struggle with Starting Pitching

Introduction to the Problem

The White Sox are in survival mode with their starting pitching. Right-hander Elvis Peguero was used in an opener role in Monday’s 2-1 loss to the Tigers, allowing one run on three hits with three strikeouts in 1⅔ innings. The Tigers’ offense then was shut down by the pitching staff and some strong plays from the Sox’ defense.

The Bullpen Game Strategy

Manager Will Venable said before the game that the team will need “contributions from multiple guys” on Tuesday, indicating a bullpen game, so it was important that the bullpen didn’t get too taxed Monday. Sox starters have repeatedly failed to go deep into starts over the last month. Entering Monday, Sox starters had thrown the fourth-fewest innings (54) since July 28.

Performance of the Pitching Staff

The bullpen kept the Sox in Monday’s game, but the Sox created few scoring chances and didn’t capitalize on the scoring opportunities they did generate. The pitching staff held up remarkably well. Left-hander Tyler Alexander handled the bulk role, throwing 4⅓ shutout innings, striking out five and allowing two hits and one walk. Relievers Grant Taylor, Steven Wilson, Cam Booser and Brandon Eisert combined to allow one run.

Overcoming Starting Pitching Challenges

Covering starts was always going to be a problem that the Sox would have to overcome in the second half of the season, with young starters surpassing career highs in innings and a lack of veteran depth to support them. “We’re asking a lot of our guys in the ’pen right now and we understand that,” Venable said. “You’ve seen us over the last couple of days have to bring in some reinforcements, and that’s what it takes. It’s an organizational effort to get through these stretches where you’re thin and catching up there with the consecutive short starts in a row.”

Notable Player Performances

Shortstop Colson Montgomery continued to showcase his superb power in Monday’s game. He connected on a 0-1 changeup in the zone for a 401-foot solo homer to tie the game in the fifth. Montgomery is now fourth on the team with 10 homers, four behind Sosa’s team-leading 14. His homer comes after his 452-foot blast on Sunday that was the longest homer of the season for the Sox.

Injury Updates

Third baseman Miguel Vargas (oblique) is progressing well since being placed on the 10-day injured list on Aug. 3, retroactive to Aug. 2. Vargas hit in the cage and did some infield drills before Monday’s game. Venable said he responded well and applauded Vargas’ communication with the medical staffers so they were able to catch the injury before it became a major strain. Infielder Chase Meidroth (right thumb contusion) did some work in the cage, but Venable said Meidroth is “still not all the way there.” Meidroth is slashing .252/.330/.319 on the season with three homers and 12 doubles. X-rays ruled out a fracture for Meidroth.

Conclusion

The White Sox face significant challenges with their starting pitching, relying heavily on their bullpen to cover for short starts. While the pitching staff has shown resilience, the team’s inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities has hindered their success. As the season progresses, the Sox will need to find ways to overcome these challenges and support their young starters.

FAQs

Q: What is the current state of the White Sox starting pitching?

A: The White Sox starting pitching is struggling, with starters repeatedly failing to go deep into games, putting a heavy burden on the bullpen.

Q: How has the bullpen performed in response to the starting pitching challenges?

A: The bullpen has held up well, with pitchers like Tyler Alexander and relievers Grant Taylor, Steven Wilson, Cam Booser, and Brandon Eisert combining to allow only one run in Monday’s game.

Q: Which players have shown notable performances despite the team’s challenges?

A: Shortstop Colson Montgomery has showcased his power, hitting a 401-foot solo homer in Monday’s game, and is now fourth on the team with 10 homers.

Q: What are the latest updates on injured players?

A: Third baseman Miguel Vargas is progressing well from an oblique injury, and infielder Chase Meidroth is recovering from a right thumb contusion, although he is not yet fully recovered.