Glendale, Ariz. — The questions surrounding starting pitcher Mike Clevinger and his role with the Chicago White Sox in 2023 have been answered. So what’s next?
While new White Sox manager Pedro Grifol begins to institute a new attitude in the clubhouse this spring, there has been plenty of uncertainty surrounding the Chicago rotation and what would happen with Clevinger as he was investigated for allegations of domestic violence and child abuse.
However, on Sunday, it was announced that, after MLB’s investigation into the allegations, Clevinger would not be disciplined, meaning he is on track to begin the season in the rotation.
Mike Clevinger’s next steps with the Chicago White Sox
In the release about MLB’s decision, it was written that, “As part of his path forward, Mr. Clevinger has voluntarily agreed to submit to evaluations by the joint treatment boards under the collectively bargained policies, and to comply with any of the boards’ recommendations.”
However, none of those recommendations are expected to keep Clevinger from being available for the White Sox to begin the season.
The team also released their own statement about the conclusion, “The Chicago White Sox respect that the joint policies of MLB and the MLBPA govern this matter. We accept the conclusion of the thorough, months-long investigation conducted by the Commissioner’s Office with respect to Mike Clevinger. Per the terms of the joint policy, the White Sox will not comment further on this matter.”
After signing a one-year, $12 million deal with the White Sox during the offseason, Clevinger is expected to fill in one of the back end spots of the Chicago rotation, with Dylan Cease, Lance Lynn, Lucas Giolito, and Michael Kopech likely joining him in filling out the Opening Day starters. Even while the investigation has been ongoing, Clevinger has been a part of Chicago’s spring training activities, helping him prepare for the season ahead.
In all, the results are a positive development for the White Sox, who are hoping to return to the top of the American League Central after stumbling to an 81-81 record last season and missing the postseason.
With this investigation in the background, expect Clevinger and the White Sox to proceed ahead as normal with the White Sox scheduled to open the 2023 season in Houston against the Astros on March 30.