The White Sox have another player heading to the injured list. This time around, it’s right-handed starting pitcher Dylan Cease, who is suffering from COVID-like symptoms.
It’s important to note here that Cease has currently not tested positive for COVID-19. Rather, the team is making this move as a precaution to keep him away from the clubhouse until his symptoms have cleared.
Cease was 0-0 with a 3.86 ERA (4 ER/9.1 IP) and nine strikeouts over his two starts this season. During his last outing, the 25-year-old limited Kansas City to one earned run over 4.2 IP, walking three and striking out six. Though it may not seem like it to some, the righty did show signs of improvement. Unfortunately, we’ll now have to wait and see if he can keep that positive momentum going into his next outing
As for the corresponding roster move, the White Sox will be recalling right-hander Zack Burdi from the Schaumburg training facility. Fans can expect to see Burdi help by lightening the bullpen’s load, as he made eight relief appearances with the Sox last season. His numbers from that stretch – 7.1 IP, 11 H, 11 R, 9 ER, 4 HR, 3 BB, and 11 K – were less than noteworthy but there they are in case you needed a refresher.
Between now and this weekend, we shall see whether the club opts to call-up a starter (Reynaldo Lopez) or shift someone like Michael Kopech out of his reliever role once Cease’s spot in the rotation comes up again.
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Fortunately for the Sox,Cease appears to be okay healthwise.Living in North Carolina,I don’t get to see the team on television too often.On the other hand,we have great access to the Sox minors affiliates here.Here’s my point: when Cease pitched at a high level down here,he was much more fastball oriented.I likened him to Verlander,who frequently was throwing harder in the latter innings.Cease may be more comfortable and effective as a power pitcher rather than relying on so much off speed stuff.