Chicago White Sox Make Big Decision with Former Top-Heralded Pitching Prospect

After a string of bad starts, the Chicago White Sox have moved former top pitching prospect Michael Kopech to the bullpen.

The Chicago White Sox have made a big decision for Saturday's game, electing to put Michael Kopech in the bullpen. Jose Urena will start in his place.

Daryl Van Schouwen had the information on social media:

Jose Urena starting tomorrow 

Michael Kopech to the bullpen

Jose Urena starting tomorrow

Michael Kopech to the bullpen

— Daryl Van Schouwen (@CST_soxvan) September 8, 2023

The former top pitching prospect has struggled this year, going 5-12 with a 5.16 ERA in 125.2 innings. He's had a particularly tough time lately, failing to go past 4.1 innings in any of his last five starts. His control has been an issue for him as well. He walked five batters in 1.2 innings his last time out, and walked four in 4.0 innings two starts ago. He has walked at least four batters in seven straight starts.

Kopech arrived in Chicago via the Boston Red Sox before the 2017 season. He arrived in a trade with Yoan Moncada for Chris Sale, who went on to help the Red Sox win the World Series in 2018.

For his career, Kopech is 15-25 with a 4.22 ERA. He's a former first-round pick of the Red Sox in 2014.

With regards to Urena, the 31-year-old is in his ninth big league season with the Marlins, Tigers, Rockies, Brewers and White Sox. He's 39-66 in his career with a 4.92 ERA.

The White Sox will play the Tigers on Saturday afternoon. First pitch is set for 6:10 p.m. ET at Comerica Park.

Urena will pitch against Tigers' lefty Tarik Skubal. He enters the matchup at 4-3 with a 3.77 ERA.

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