AL Central: Who is the top starting pitcher?
By Brett Pnazek
5. Jeff Samardzija (Chicago White Sox)
Mar 17, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Jeff Samardzija against the Seattle Mariners at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
2014 Stats
WHIP: 1.07
ERA: 2.99
K/9: 8.28
Quality Starts: 23
The Shark played for the Cubs and A’s last year, as he posted a career low ERA as a full time starter and the move from the NL to the AL didn’t affect him as much as many thought it may. He’s pitching for a free agent contract and stands a good chance to best his career high in wins of nine.
I know the White Sox have talked about signing a contract extension with Samardzija, but if he posts solid numbers he may pitch himself out of Chicago yet again. We have yet to see his best I believe, but he may always be one of those fringe guys who is a solid pitcher but never a true ace.
Next: No. 4: Health is the issue