White Sox pitcher Michael Kopech departed Sunday’s game against the Texas Rangers with an apparent leg injury.
The team said in a tweet that Kopech experienced right knee discomfort, and will undergo further evaluation.
Sunday’s starter only managed to record two outs in the first inning before the injury occurred on his 13th pitch. Kopech appeared to catch his ankle on the mound and immediately winced in pain.
After talking with manager Tony La Russa and the training staff, Kopech attempted to throw a warm-up pitch but hesitated and stopped himself before he could even complete his delivery. The right-hander’s displeasure was clear as he slammed the ball to the ground before heading to the dugout.
If there’s one player the White Sox cannot afford to lose for any amount of time, it’s Kopech. The 26-year-old has been one of the game’s elite starters, going 2-2 with a 1.92 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and 51 strikeouts over 51.2 innings this season. He was also coming off an impressive outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers where he recorded eight strikeouts over six scoreless frames.
As we learn more, we will provide updates here and on social media @SoxOn35th.
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