White Sox pitcher Drew Thorpe recently faced a setback in his recovery from elbow surgery. After undergoing a procedure in September 2024 to remove a bone spur, he experienced soreness that required a cortisone shot. Initially expected to be ready for Spring Training, Thorpe is now slightly behind schedule but remains hopeful. An MRI showed clean results, and he plans to resume throwing next week. White Sox GM Chris Getz expressed confidence in his return, expecting him to rejoin the big-league roster by April.
Thorpe’s Role in White Sox Rebuild: Crucial for Future Success
Thorpe was acquired as a key piece in the Dylan Cease trade and is viewed as a cornerstone of the White Sox’s rebuilding efforts. His development is essential for a team looking to bounce back from a historically poor 2024 season. With veterans like Martin Perez and Bryse Wilson providing experience, Thorpe represents the younger generation expected to help turn things around. While his rookie season showed promise, control issues and injuries remain challenges. Fans are closely monitoring his progress as the White Sox prepare for Spring Training on February 22, 2025.
Thorpe’s debut in 2024 featured both encouraging signs and struggles. He posted an impressive 3.03 ERA over his first seven starts but later struggled with command, culminating in two disastrous outings where he allowed 14 runs in just over five innings. His season was cut short due to a flexor strain, requiring surgery. Moving forward, he must improve his control, as he recorded an 11.1% walk rate and allowed eight home runs in 44 1/3 innings. Despite these issues, his potential remains evident, and he is expected to play a significant role in the team’s future.
Competition in the Rotation: Thorpe’s Opportunity to Shine
When Thorpe returns, he will have opportunities to earn a spot in the White Sox rotation. While Perez and Wilson provide veteran stability, younger pitchers like Jonathan Cannon, Sean Burke, Davis Martin, Nick Nastrini, and Ky Bush will compete for spots. If Thorpe can recover fully and refine his command, he has the talent to establish himself as a key starter. Though setbacks are frustrating, both he and the organization remain optimistic that his injury won’t hinder his long-term development.
The White Sox’s disastrous 2024 season underscored the importance of young arms like Thorpe. The team suffered 121 losses, setting a franchise record, with pitching woes contributing significantly. Their rotation ranked 24th in fWAR and 27th in FIP, while the bullpen posted an MLB-worst save percentage of 35%. The offense also underperformed, with a lack of extra-base hits and an inefficient payroll allocation. With management changes and a rebuilding focus, Thorpe’s health and performance could be crucial in shaping the White Sox’s future trajectory.
