Mike Clevinger Secures a New Deal with the White Sox for the 2024 Season
In a strategic move for the upcoming 2024 season, the Chicago White Sox have secured a deal with pitcher Mike Clevinger. The agreement promises Clevinger $3 million for the season, with performance-based incentives that could see him earning an additional $3 million. This contract, however, hinges on the successful completion of a physical examination.
A Look Back at Clevinger's Professional Journey
Mike Clevinger's journey with the White Sox began last winter when he inked a one-year agreement valued at $12 million. This tenure came amidst investigations into allegations of domestic violence leveled against him, which concluded without imposing any formal disciplinary actions. Throughout the last season, Clevinger took to the mound for 131 1/3 innings, recording an impressive 3.77 ERA, despite facing hurdles that twice placed him on the injured list.
The pitcher, who underwent Tommy John surgery in November 2020, showed signs of struggle last season, evident from his 20% strikeout rate, which was below the league's average. Analyzing his performance through the lens of advanced metrics—a 4.28 FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) and 4.81 SIERA (Skill-Interactive ERA)—it's clear that Clevinger faced more challenges than his ERA might suggest. His numbers were possibly buoyed by a .281 batting average on balls in play and a 77.2% strand rate, reflecting some luck in play.
Anticipations for Clevinger in the 2024 Season
As the White Sox re-strategize their pitching roster for 2024, they see Clevinger as a pivotal piece in their rotation. This decision reflects a forward-looking approach, bearing in mind that Clevinger might require some time to regain his top form. His re-signing indicates the team’s confidence in his ability to bounce back and contribute significantly to their pitching lineup.
With no stone left unturned, Clevinger is setting his sights on refining his pitching mechanics and enhancing his strikeout capabilities. As part of their longer-term vision, the White Sox might also reassess their current starting pitchers, with trade considerations for some being a possibility. The overarching goal is clear: bolster the White Sox's pitching arsenal, with Clevinger expected to play a central role in this revamp.
In summary, Mike Clevinger's new contract with the Chicago White Sox for the 2024 season not only represents a potential comeback story for the pitcher but also embodies the team's faith in his latent potential. Clevinger’s journey, marked by its peaks and troughs—from undergoing a significant surgical procedure to navigating through personal controversies—underscores a career at a potential inflection point. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on him to see if he can harness his talent, elevate his performance, and justify the White Sox's investment and faith in him.