Mike Clevinger Landing Spots: 3 possible destinations for veteran pitcher after injury-plagued season with White Sox
Things have not gone the way that many projected for Mike Clevinger in the majors. After looking like a potential superstar in the making earlier in his career, injuries and personal issues have derailed his once-promising run. Nevertheless, he has still shown flashes of the potential many had hoped he could reach as a younger pitcher.
Unfortunately for Clevinger, injuries affected him yet again in 2024. The 33-year-old was limited to only 16.0 innings last year, posting a disappointing 0-3 record with a 6.75 ERA before suffering a season-ending injury. Clevinger suffered a neck injury that required disc replacement surgery, and even though it ended his 2024 campaign, he is expected to be ready for next season.
At this point of his career, Clevinger will likely need to sign a one-year deal to keep pitching in the majors. Still, teams may be willing to take a low-cost flier on the former star to see if they can unlock whatever is left in his arm.
Here's a closer look at 3 potential landing spots for Mike Clevinger in free agency
#1, Chicago White Sox
There's a chance that Mike Clevinger and the Chicago White Sox just can't quit each other. Chicago has shown a willingness to bring him back into the fold over the past two seasons, and it would be unsurprising to see it happen again.
Chicago has nothing to lose at this point, and if they can agree to terms on a team-friendly deal, the White Sox could trade him later in the year if he can bounce back. Clevinger was solid for the White Sox in 2023, posting a 3.77 ERA with 110 strikeouts. If he can turn back the clock, he could fetch Chicago a prospect or two at the deadline.
#2, Los Angeles Angels
The Los Angeles Angels have had one of the most underrated offseason in the majors. The team has put considerable effort into revamping its roster, adding several notable players, including Jorge Soler, Travis d'Arnaud and Yusei Kikuchi. The Halos could continue to bolster their rotation by bringing in Mike Clevinger on a low-risk, high-reward deal. If he hits, it could be a steal.
#3, The Athletics
The Athletics have been an interesting team to monitor this offseason, bringing in the likes of Luis Severino on the richest contract in franchise history. It remains to be seen what the A's plan is this season. However, it's clear that they are more willing to bring in talent. Like the White Sox, the Athletics could bring in Mike Clevinger in the hopes of a bounceback, potentially leading to a trade later on.