White Sox Season Review: Grading the Starting Pitching
By Brian Draus
Miguel Gonzalez (B-)
This was a steal for the White Sox when they picked up Gonzalez off of the scrap heap in April. He went on to have an solid season for the South Siders, as he posted a 5-8 record with a 3.73 ERA. His BB/K rate was nearly 3/1 (in favor of K’s), with 95 K’s and 35 BB’s.
Gonzalez was let go for one reason, the Baltimore Orioles thought his velocity was dropping. Since he was struggling to touch 90 MPH, something Gonzalez needs to do in order to win, the Orioles let him go. However, his velocity increased when he came to Chicago, as did his fastball. His average fastball was in the 90-92 range, which he is capable of pitching at.
The Sox could end up getting a steal in Gonzalez, and 100% free. No prospects dealt away, no big contract to worry about, nothing. He is making basically league minimum. This is why the Sox pitch well most every season. They know how to recognize talent when there is some left. Which Gonzalez still has.