The Cubs called up their top prospect in Kris Bryant, and now, it’s time for the White Sox to follow suit – starting pitcher Carlos Rodon is getting the call.
Source: Carlos Rodon joining #WhiteSox tomorrow. Will initially work out of bullpen.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) April 19, 2015
Rodon was the third overall pick in last June’s MLB Draft out of NC State. He’s made just nine appearances in the minors since being drafted, tossing a total of 31 2/3 innings, striking out 46 and walking 17.
The decision to initially use Rodon out of the bullpen is a curious one, but it makes sense. It’ll help the White Sox manage his innings to limit injury, let Rodon get accustomed to the majors, and will eventually allow him to take a spot in the rotation when he’s ready for prime time.
Rodon also gives Robin Ventura another option in a bullpen that has struggled at times – only David Robertson, Zach Putnam, and Javy Guerra (in just 1 2/3 innings) have ERAs under 4.00. Hector Noesi is the Chicago starter that should worry about eventually losing his rotation spot to Rodon, and the only reason he should be worried as opposed to John Danks is because Danks is owed $28.4 million through next season.
