Drew Thorpe’s first career appearance at the Triple-A level turned out to be a good one Wednesday night for the White Sox Charlotte affiliate during a game at Rochester. Unfortunately it wasn’t quite as successful for the Knights’ bullpen, which allowed 10 runs in the eighth inning during a 13-1 setback.
Here’s a look at the right-hander’s latest injury rehab start.
How did he perform?
Thorpe allowed one run on three hits over five innings, striking out six without issuing a walk. He threw 76 pitches, 52 for strikes, in his longest Minor League outing this season.
“Yeah, really good reports,” said White Sox manager Will Venable. “I think No. 1, the fact he’s going out there and he’s healthy is really positive.
“I’m just happy for him personally that he’s in a good spot and he’s out there competing after such a tough road to get back, and he’s such a good guy. He’s worked so hard. Just really nice to see him out there.”
What’s next?
Another start with the Knights figures to be on the agenda for Thorpe, who had one start in Arizona, one for High-A Winston-Salem and two for Double-A Birmingham before Wednesday. Thorpe remains in the mix to help the White Sox in late August or September, as he continues on this rehab path from Tommy John surgery during Spring Training ‘25.
“Absolutely,” said Venable when asked about Thorpe being in the future big league picture.
What are they saying?
“He’s getting good results, too. He’s pitching really well so we are excited about that and the opportunity to add a depth piece here down the stretch.” -- Venable
What else?
The White Sox had not announced a starter for Friday’s all-important series opener in Detroit, although it figures to be Erick Fedde.
“In my heart, I’m hoping for that opportunity again,” Fedde told MLB.com during a recent interview. “Keep proving what I was doing there in June and July.”
Fedde last pitched in relief last Friday against Cleveland. The rotation spot reopened with Noah Schultz being optioned to Charlotte, and the White Sox also will be watchful of their young hurlers’ innings down the stretch to make sure they finish strong.