Chicago White Sox bringing back Carlos Rodon
Carlos Rodon had been a disappointment for the Chicago White Sox. Selected with the third overall pick in the 2014 MLB Draft, Rodon was a consensus top 50 prospect who rocketed through the system, making just 11 minor league appearances before reaching the majors. He was expected to be a solid middle of the rotation arm, but was unable to reach that potential.
After being plagued by injuries over the past four seasons, the White Sox had seemingly moved on, non-tendering Rodon after the 2020 campaign. However, on Saturday, they reversed course, bringing him back on a one year deal worth $3 million.
Carlos Rodon goes back to White Sox, pending physical.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 30, 2021
Chicago White Sox holding out hope for Carlos Rodon
Rodon had displayed some of that promise in his first two seasons. While he was not going to be an ace, he still appeared to be a solid starter, someone that the White Sox could build their rotation around. Instead, a myriad of arm injuries, culminating in Tommy John surgery, derailed what seemed to be a promising career.
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While Rodon only made two starts in 2020, it was his two relief appearances that show hope for the upcoming season. Although his numbers were not impressive, allowing a run on two hits over two innings with just one strikeout, his velocity showed potential. His fastball averaged nearly 96 MPH, making him a potential power lefty out of the bullpen.
As it currently stands, Rodon is expected to compete for a spot in the White Sox rotation. Although the top three spots in the rotation are set, Rodon will battle with Dylan Cease and Reynaldo Lopez, potentially amongst others, for one of those two openings.
If nothing else, Lopez would give the White Sox yet another left handed option in the bullpen. Garrett Crochet, Jace Fry, and Aaron Bummer are already expected to play key roles in Chicago’s bullpen in the upcoming season. Although Lopez would likely serve as a long reliever/spot starter if he ends up in the bullpen, he could still have a solid amount of value in that role.
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The Chicago White Sox are taking another chance on Carlos Rodon. He is back on a one year deal.