Chicago White Sox' Free Agent Target Staying Ready as Season Nears

Free agent pitcher and former All-Star Michael Lorenzen threw a 70-pitch simulated game as he continues to wait for an opportunity in 2024. Reports have indicated that the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees are interested.

Blake Snell isn't the only former All-Star pitcher still waiting for a call this offseason.

Michael Lorenzen, who earned an All-Star nod with the Detroit Tigers in 2023, threw a 70-pitch simulated game in California over the weekend as he continues to stay ready.

Per Ken Rosenthal of 'The Athletic:'

Free-agent RHP Michael Lorenzen threw 70 pitches yesterday, getting up and down four times, hitting 94 to 96 mph with his fastball, according to a report viewed by The Athletic. Here is video from his agent, Ryan Hamill of CAA.

Free-agent RHP Michael Lorenzen threw 70 pitches yesterday, getting up and down four times, hitting 94 to 96 mph with his fastball, according to a report viewed by The Athletic. Here is video from his agent, Ryan Hamill of CAA. pic.twitter.com/Qk5ol8Ovq5

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) March 18, 2024

Recently, we've heard that Lorenzen has drawn interest from both the Chicago White Sox and the New York Yankees. The Yankees would see him as a replacement for Gerrit Cole, who is set to miss at least two months with an elbow problem, while the White Sox would instantly slot him as the No. 1 starter after trading Dylan Cease.

The California native has pitched in nine major league seasons with the Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles Angels, Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies. He went 9-9 last season with the Tigers and Phillies (he was traded midseason). Lorenzen tossed a no-hitter upon arrival in Philadelphia and is 40-38 lifetime with a 4.11 ERA.

Reports have indicated that Lorenzen wants a two-year deal in excess of $20 million, which doesn't seem like an unreasonable ask. However, in this very slow-moving free agent winter, it is apparently too rich.

Opening Day is March 28 and Lorenzen will likely need some minor league starts before he is ready to join any rotation.

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