Michael Kopech

Kopech remains one of the top pitching prospects in the game, but he hasn't pitched competitively in about two-and-a-half year at this point. His fastball and slider are more than MLB caliber, and he had a 31.2% strikeout rate in the minors. But after missing all of 2019 with Tommy John surgery and opting out last year, it wouldn't be wise to just expect Kopech to step right back into a rotation without any growing pains. The White Sox also have depth in their rotation after trading for Lance Lynn and signing Carlos Rodon, so Chicago can, and likely will, stick Kopech in the minors to start the year to continue his development. But given their championship aspirations, he should crack the rotation at some point during the season if he show he is back to form.

Michael Kopech to be used in multi-inning outings

White Sox manager Tony La Russa says RHP Michael Kopech will be used in multi-inning outings out of the bullpen.

Fantasy Impact

Kopech hasn't pitched regularly since 2018 so Chicago is easing him in as a long reliever this spring. The 24-year-old won't have fantasy value in redraft leagues unless he joins the rotation, but he remains an exciting long-term player to roster in dynasty formats.