White Sox Adjust Pitching Strategy Amid Challenges

Chicago White Sox pitcher Sean Burke experienced a setback earlier in August, describing an outing in Detroit on August 16 as physically challenging. He mentioned, “Not really painful or anything, more kind of like some dead-body, dead-arm feeling.” Burke worked with trainers and strength staff to address these issues. “(We) figured out some tweaks and adjustments to make throughout the week, just to make my body and everything feel good for the day I’m pitching,” he explained.

Burke felt improved in his recent start against the New York Mets, noting that he felt “really good again.” He remains optimistic, stating, “So definitely trending back upwards and I feel good.” Burke is set to start on Wednesday against the Texas Rangers.

The White Sox face challenges as they compete for a division title. They entered the game against the Rangers with a 2 1/2-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians in the American League Central. Manager Will Venable commented, “Like it has been every year, you find these pockets where you feel really good about where you’re at with your pitching staff and your bullpen, and then there are times where you feel there’s some instability.” He emphasized the goal of finding ways to win daily.

The team struggles with innings from starters, ranking last in the majors with 561 innings pitched by starters. This situation has increased the workload for the bullpen. For instance, José Urquidy allowed five runs in three innings in an 11-2 loss to the Rangers, and Luis Castillo had a 10-5 defeat against the Mets with four runs over 2 2/3 innings. Castillo’s performance since joining the White Sox on August 1 from the Seattle Mariners has been inconsistent, including a stellar showing against the Cincinnati Reds on August 12.

Anthony Kay has been effective this month in contrast, boasting a 2.66 ERA in his last four starts, with 17 strikeouts and four walks in 23 2/3 innings. Burke reflected on his performances and identified positives, despite mixed results. He felt confident about pitching six innings, no walks, and maintaining a high strike percentage.

While dealing with starter Davis Martin’s absence on the injured list, José Urquidy and Fedde have adapted to new roles. Urquidy had a notable six relief innings against the Cubs on August 19, while Fedde has pitched 8 2/3 scoreless innings recently.

Venable focuses on daily strategies, asserting, “We’re just going to figure out what to do today, and that’s going to be our mindset.” They have made adjustments due to Brazobán’s placement on the injured list with a lat strain, recalling Jonathan Cannon from Triple-A Charlotte. The team also managed roster changes, including placing outfielder Andrew Benintendi on the bereavement/family medical emergency list.