White Sox: Four Reasons Why Will Dylan Cease Breakout 2021

New Chicago White Sox pitching coach, Ethan Katz, should really be able to help Cease.

After the 2020 season ended, the White Sox made some changes to the coaching staff. Letting go of one of the game’s legends in Don Cooper opened the door for Ethan Katz, someone more new-school and can keep up with the game’s evolving technology and training systems. The Sox get a couple of other little perks along with the signing of Katz.

When he struggled and was probably the worst eligible starting pitching in baseball, Lucas Giolito sought the help of Katz. The two, along with other trainers, helped form Giolito’s new delivery and fixed the mechanics he needed to take the next step. Dylan Cease has struggled so far in the majors and is making strides to get better. That will be easier with the mind of Katz coaching him.

In an interview with NBC’s Chuck Garfein on the White Sox Talk Podcast, Ethan Katz mentioned working on Cease’s delivery and command. From there, he said, he plans on adding another layer to his development. In a later podcast, Cease discussed his training routine this past offseason, saying Katz gives him drills to do. While working out, Cease records himself and the two discuss his progress.

Cease also mentioned his desire to be better and help contribute to this team. He recalled game three and how his dreadful September led Dane Dunning to start that game instead. He mentioned not being able to be mad at anyone other than himself. It is clear that he is motivated to take that next step in 2021. With some face-to-face work with Katz along with his work ethic and desire to be better, not to mention that motivation, lines it up perfectly for Cease to break out.