Chicago White Sox: 5 reasons they won the AL Central

Ethan Katz Hire

Ethan Katz has helped so many Chicago White Sox pitchers turn into superstars.

When the White Sox cut ties with long-time pitching coach Don Cooper, it came as a shock. However, it was clear that it was time to move on from Cooper. The White Sox opted to go with Lucas Giolito’s high school pitching coach, Ethan Katz.

Katz helped Giolito transform into an ace by changing his arm angle. This adjustment may have helped save Giolito’s career. Katz is also behind the complete 180 of Carlos Rodon’s career.

Over the offseason, Katz helped Rodon engage his lower half more. This put less stress on his shoulder and slightly increased his velocity. The results speak for themselves. Rodon threw a no-hitter in April and is having the best statistical season of his career.

Katz has also been working with Reynaldo Lopez a lot. Lopez has gone from a pitcher the White Sox bailed on to one of the most effective arms on the pitching staff. He has lowered his ERA from 6.49 a year ago to 3.16.

Katz’s influence hasn’t just been limited to the starters. When Liam Hendriks struggled early in the season, Katz pulled up some video footage and pointed out that Hendriks was overthrowing his breaking ball. This mechanical tweak helped Hendriks quickly return to All-Star form.

Katz had lofty expectations when he was hired. He has lived up to them and then some. In his first year as pitching coach, his staff has carried the White Sox to a division title.