Today was the first day the White Sox were able to catch two of their prized jewels in action. Right handed prospects Michael Kopech and Reynaldo Lopez both got starts today in a split squad matchup. Lopez took on the Cincinnati Reds, While Kopech was tasked with the Seattle Mariners. Looking at the initial results, it might be easy for some fans to overreact. However, even though both starts did not go well, there were still a couple highlights to get excited about, mainly from Kopech.
Michael Kopech
Michael Kopech probably wants a do-over after his start today. Giving up 4 runs in 1 inning is probably not what he, or some fans, expected. Remember, Kopech is 20 years old and has never pitched higher than high A ball. The competition he faced today was by far the toughest and most seasoned he has ever pitched against.
The bright spot was that Kopech hit 100+ on the radar gun numerous times, and his fastball sat consistently at 97. He finished the day with 4 ER, 2 strikeouts (both looking) and a walk.
Michael Kopech's first three pitches were 99, 100 and 100. This is video of third for called strike 3. #WhiteSox pic.twitter.com/1hW3DC2w1p
— Dan Hayes (@CSNHayes) February 28, 2017
Kopech may have been roughed up in his first start, but this experience he is getting at Spring Training at such a young age will do wonders for him down the road.
Reynaldo Lopez
It is probably a little easier for some fans to be nervous about Lopez’ start today, mainly because he already has had successful MLB outings before with the Washington Nationals. However, he too is still a prospect learning the game at a more professional level. Today, he had a rough outing like Kopech, giving up 4 ER on 5 hits, including a home run. A forgetful start to say the least, but Lopez is not feeling the pressure.
“We don’t feel that pressure. We are not desperate to show people what we can do because we know what we can do.”
-Reynaldo Lopez
It sounds like he knows that bad starts happen for every pitcher and he is no exception. His confidence in his stuff is undeniable, which is key for any pitcher to have prolonged success. The only thing he can do is learn from today and continue to make adjustments, same as Kopech.
Obviously these two starts are not what the White Sox and the fans were looking for, but we have to remember that it is just one start. For Kopech, it was his first start ever in Spring Training. Both pitchers have more than enough time to grow into the dominant forces they are projected to become.
It is going to be a couple years for the White Sox to be relevant again. Be patient, trust the process, and enjoy watching the kids grow.
