White Sox: Is Carson Fulmer a Viable Option to Start in 2018?

The White Sox lack depth in their rotation. Could Carson Fulmer step up and claim a spot in the starting rotation for 2018?

The Chicago White Sox have a lot of starting pitching depth in their minors. But they don’t have much at the major league level. That will be an issue in 2018. The organization was dealt a blow when Carlos Rodon underwent shoulder surgery in September. With no specific time table on his return, they are now down two starters. And they don’t have many in-house options but Carson Fulmer could be one.

Fulmer had sort of a rocky year. He struggled for most of the season at Triple-A. In his 2017 debut he allowed six runs in just over an inning of work. That had many wondering where he would fit with this White Sox team. Flash forward to September and he looked like a totally different pitcher. He allowed just four runs in 22 innings and he made three starts.

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Critics have pointed to his small stature and violent wind up asreasons why he would best suited in a bullpen role. And we all know the White Sox could use help in that area too. The organization drafted him with the thought he would be a starting pitcher. Now, with no shortage of options in their minors, they could easily move him to the bullpen. That would at least help solve the bullpen problem.

Expect the White Sox to give Fulmer every opportunity to snag a rotation spot during spring training. He had a great last month of the season and hopefully he can carry that momentum along. Rick Hahn will probably look to add two starting pitchers in free agency, which would be smart on his part. I wouldn’t be willing to bet on Fulmer long term at this point. The White Sox have nothing to lose by giving him a shot but they should have an insurance policy.

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The opportunity is Fulmer’s to lose and his time to shine is now. There is a lot of quality starting pitching in the minors. If Fulmer can’t lock down his spot now, they will have no issue finding a replacement for him, once guys like Michael Kopech are ready.