(670 The Score) With the trade deadline looming on July 30, MLB scouts are busy evaluating the form of potential acquisitions for their respective teams.
One of those drawing a good deal of interest is White Sox reliever Michael Kopech, as many clubs have sent scouts to watch him in recent weeks. The Yankees, Royals and Phillies are just a few of the teams that have been doing their due diligence on Kopech lately.
The 28-year-old Kopech was moved to the bullpen in March after spending the prior two seasons in the starting rotation. Continuing to boast a 100-mph fastball, Kopech has posted a 4.91 ERA and 1.50 WHIP across 29 appearances this season. He has struck out 43 batters and walked 18 in 29 1/3 innings.
For his part, Kopech hopes that he can remain with the White Sox. He’s under contract control through the 2025 season.
“I don't want to leave the White Sox, but I understand where the team is at and what they are trying to accomplish,” Kopech told 670 The Score. “It helps a little bit that I have been traded before. I know what it's like to show up in a brand-new environment. It's kind of like being a new kid at a school. It's a little different now because you are expected to do something right away to help your new club win. A fresh start isn't necessarily the worst thing, but my career has been about being with the Sox. If I am traded, I will do everything I can to contribute wherever I go.”
Rivals teams believe the White Sox are looking for young pitching under contract control in return as they prepare to trade players ahead of the deadline.
“I take it one day at a time,” Kopech said. “I try to concentrate on doing the best job for our team. Also, I owe most of my career path and success – good, bad and ugly – to the White Sox. So I am extremely grateful I have been able to build a career here. I know it would be a different story if we were winning.”
While his club is an MLB-worst 18-52 this season, Kopech remembers better days for the White Sox, who acquired him from the Red Sox in December 2016.
"I saw a winning culture here just a few years ago,” Kopech said of the White Sox reaching the playoffs in 2020 and 2021. “It was a lot of fun and the peak of my professional career so far. It was great to be in a playoff atmosphere and see our great Sox fans come out, watch us, support us. That being said, there is a business side to this that I don't have any control over. If I am moved, I will try to take it in stride and prepare my family for the next chapter of our lives as a professional pitcher.”
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine .
Most Popular
Comments / 0