A Closer Look at Mike Clevinger's Fresh Start with the White Sox
The Chicago White Sox have finalized an agreement with pitcher Mike Clevinger for the 2024 season, marking yet another chapter in the right-hander’s varied career. Under the terms of the new contract, Clevinger is set to receive $3 million for the season, with an additional opportunity to earn as much as $3 million in incentives. The completion of this deal is contingent upon Clevinger passing a routine physical examination.
Revisiting Clevinger's Turbulent Year
Last winter, Clevinger inked a one-year deal with the White Sox valued at $12 million, a season that would unfold amidst investigations related to allegations of domestic violence. Despite these challenges off the field, Clevinger was not subject to formal disciplinary action and continued to contribute on the mound.
Over the course of the season, Clevinger logged 131 1/3 innings, achieving a commendable ERA of 3.77. However, it was not a straightforward journey for the pitcher; he faced stints on the injured list twice throughout the season. Adding to his challenges, Clevinger had previously undergone Tommy John surgery in November 2020, raising questions about his long-term durability and performance.
Statistically, Clevinger recorded a strikeout rate of 20% last season, falling short of the league average. This raises concerns about his ability to overpower hitters, a crucial aspect of his game. While he maintained a batting average on balls in play of .281 and managed a 77.2% strand rate, advanced metrics such as a Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) score of 4.28 and a Skill-Interactive ERA (SIERA) of 4.81 suggest that his performance might have been slightly inflated beyond what the traditional ERA metric indicates.
Anticipations for the 2024 Season
As the White Sox reconfigure their pitching staff for the 2024 season, Clevinger is poised to secure a spot in the rotation, although his role and performance will be under scrutiny. Following a year of ups and downs, both health-wise and in terms of performance, the pitcher may require some time to regain his best form.
The organization might also be considering adjustments to their starting rotation, including the possibility of trading some of their current starters to balance the team's roster and financial obligations. Clevinger, for his part, is focused on refining his pitching mechanics and enhancing his strikeout rate, aiming to return to the form that once made him one of baseball's emerging stars.
The decision by the White Sox to re-sign Clevinger, despite the challenges he faced last season, signals a vote of confidence in his potential for recovery and success. It reflects the team’s broader strategy of cultivating a competitive roster while managing risks and potential rewards. In Clevinger, the White Sox see not just a player in need of redemption but also a talented pitcher capable of contributing significantly to their ambitions in the coming season.
As the 2024 season approaches, both Clevinger and the White Sox are hopeful that this new contract will mark the beginning of a successful chapter. With determination and a bit of luck, Clevinger's journey with the White Sox might serve as a redemption story in the making, highlighting the resilience of athletes and the complexities of building a team capable of contending for championships.