AL Central: Can Kopech thrive in relief role?

Chicago White Sox

It has been a while since we last checked in on the bullpen situation, but as we got to Opening Day, there is still no clarity on the hierarchy. Let's take an update look at the current candidates for late-inning chances. 

Michael Kopech (RHP, CHW) has been a popular name since the announcement that he'll pitch out of the pen, where his stuff can play up. He was stretching out as a starter early in spring and issued 6 BB in 7 IP over his first three outings, then registered a 5/1 K/BB once he shifted to single inning stints, though Thursday's outing was not a clean one. The sample was extremely small, but it's not too hard to envision him running with the closer gig.

Another big arm in the team's relief corps is Jordan...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

In a surprising development, Austin Hedges suddenly has positive fantasy value. Plus, Murakami's return in CHW, another Max prospect in DET, more bullpen issues for KC, and Woo-Suk Go intrigue in MIN.
Jul 9 2026 3:06am
With Brent Rooker out for the season, Carlos Cortes could be back in the playing time mix in Sacramento.
Jul 8 2026 3:05am
Chandler Simpson's wheels were slowed during the speedster's lengthy stolen base drought, but he's now showing signs of breaking past his slump and helping his case to stick in Tampa Bay's lineup. Plus, more from around the AL East.
Jul 7 2026 3:05am
As the Mets shake things up, new opportunities for playing time will reveal themselves. Plus: 1B in WAS; SS in ATL; SP in MIA; Nola in PHI; more.
Jul 6 2026 9:00am
This week, we take a close look at Kyle Karros's impressive June, check in on a catching prospect in San Fran, and welcome back a few old friends.
Jul 4 2026 3:06am

Tools