White Sox: Michael Kopech Strikes Out 10 in Double-A Debut

By Matt Manetti | Apr 9, 2017

Mar 12, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Michael Kopech (78) pitches against the Texas Rangers during the third inning at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

Michael Kopech dazzled his debut a Double A, striking out 10. The righty is the third-best prospect in the White Sox organization.

The Chicago White Sox could get a treat when Michael Kopech makes his major-league debut. The righty, debuting at Double-A, struck out 10 and allowed just two runs over 4.1 innings for th Birmingham Barons on Saturday. His velocity was great, sitting around 98 but he also clocked 102 according to Manny Randhawa at MLB.com.

Kopech was acquired as part of the trade that sent Chris Sale to the Boston Red Sox. He should be a great addition to the pitching rotation, once he is called up.

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There’s really no time table for his call up, but some believe he may start out in the bullpen. Similar to what they did with Sale. That might not be bad idea. Kopech has a phenomenal arm and is a great talent. However, they don’t want to risk an injury. He is way too valuable for this team.

The future of the organization looks very bright and Kopech’s debut is definitely encouraging for the fans. The pitching rotation should be loaded once Kopech, Lucas Giolito, and Reynaldo Lopez are in the majors. Add them with Carlos Rodon and potentially Jose Quintana, and that rotation would be the best in baseball. It wouldn’t even be a discussion.

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For now, we’ll have to wait and see how he does in a few more starts. He only went 4.1 innings, but that shouldn’t be a major concern. As he gets more experience, he’ll be able to go deeper into games. The future looks bright for the White Sox. It’ll be fun watching this guy develop into an ace on the south side.

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