A Fresh Start: Mike Clevinger's 2024 Season with the White Sox
The Chicago White Sox have solidified their pitching roster for the upcoming 2024 season by striking a deal with Mike Clevinger. In a move that reflects both hope and caution, the team and Clevinger have agreed upon a contract that guarantees the pitcher $3 million for the season, with the potential to double his earnings through performance-based incentives. This arrangement is contingent upon Clevinger passing a physical examination, a standard procedure meant to ensure a player's health and readiness for the demanding season ahead.
From Controversy to Comeback
This recent contract marks a notable shift in the career trajectory of Mike Clevinger. Just last winter, Clevinger was welcomed to the White Sox with a one-year deal worth $12 million. The period that followed, however, challenged the pitcher both professionally and personally. Allegations of domestic violence cast a shadow over Clevinger, sparking investigations into his conduct. Ultimately, Clevinger faced no formal discipline, allowing him to continue his career uninterrupted.
On the field, Clevinger's efforts translated into a season with a respectable 3.77 ERA across 131 1/3 innings pitched. Despite these solid numbers, Clevinger's year was not without its hurdles. Health concerns led to two stints on the injured list, and it’s worth noting that Clevinger is still within the recovery window from the Tommy John surgery he underwent in November 2020. Last season, he recorded a strikeout rate of 20%, falling below the league average and suggesting room for improvement in his approach to retiring batters.
Further scrutiny of Clevinger’s performance through advanced metrics tells a more nuanced story. His Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) stood at 4.28, while his Skill-Interactive ERA (SIERA) was calculated at 4.81. Both statistics imply that Clevinger may have benefited from factors beyond his direct control, such as a .281 batting average on balls in play (BABIP) and a 77.2% strand rate, which might have helped him maintain a lower ERA than these other indicators would predict.
Setting the Stage for Success
As the White Sox look ahead to 2024, changes to their pitching roster signal a strategic approach to the season. With Clevinger’s contract renewal, the team not only expresses confidence in his ability to overcome past challenges but also embraces the potential for his contribution to their success. He is expected to bolster the starting rotation, even as the organization considers adjustments, including potential trades of current starters, to optimize their lineup.
Recovering from surgery and returning to peak physical condition are undoubtedly top priorities for Clevinger. Moreover, improving his pitch mechanics and enhancing his strikeout rate are focal points that could significantly impact his performance. By addressing these areas, Clevinger aims not only to meet but potentially surpass expectations, proving himself as a valuable asset to the White Sox.
In re-signing Clevinger, the White Sox have made a calculated risk, betting on his capability to rebound from a tumultuous period and contribute significantly to the team's aspirations. This agreement, with its base salary and incentive structure, reflects a mutual commitment between player and team to strive for excellence. As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Clevinger to see if he can harness his talent and experience to achieve new heights in his career with the White Sox.