The Chicago White Sox rotation had a potential hole to fill in their rotation despite making moves in free agency.
Mike Clevinger had been signed back in December, filling the void left by Johnny Cueto’s departure. However, just a month later, it was revealed that he was under investigation for violating the league’s domestic abuse policy. Clevinger had allegedly verbally, physically, and mentally abused the mother of his child and threw used chewing tobacco on the infant. The White Sox had stated that they were unaware of those allegations at the time of the signing.
Chicago White Sox standing by Mike Clevinger pays off
That investigation is now complete. On Sunday, Major League Baseball announced that Clevinger will not be facing any discipline from those allegations. As Jesse Rogers from ESPN also noted, Clevinger has voluntarily agreed evaluations by the MLB/MLBPA joint treatment boards and will accept any findings and recommendations.
The White Sox had been hoping that Clevinger’s one year deal worth $12 million would be a bargain. He had been a solid part of the Guardians and Padres rotations, posting a 2.96 ERA and a 1.153 WHiP over his 489.1 innings between 2017 and 2020, striking out 553 batters with 178 walks. However, he underwent Tommy John surgery at the end of the 2020 season, costing him the entire 2021 campaign.
Clevinger was not quite himself in 2022. He posted a respectable 4.33 ERA and a 1.198 WHiP over his 114.1 innings, striking out 91 batters with 35 walks. As he will be another year removed from surgery, it is entirely possible that he returns to his previous form. The White Sox are certainly hoping that will be the case.
This news means that the White Sox and Clevinger can focus on getting ready for the upcoming season. While he may not receive the warmest reception, Clevinger will be able to take his spot in the rotation without worry. This is a boon for the White Sox’s postseason aspirations.
Chicago White Sox pitcher Mike Clevinger will not face discipline under MLB’s domestic abuse policy. It is the best news he could have hoped for.
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