During the 2025 season, the Chicago White Sox primarily used right-hander Mike Vasil as a bulk reliever, though he also started three games in June, pitching into the fourth inning each time. He gained valuable high-pressure experience by recording four saves in the ninth inning. As spring training continues in Scottsdale, Arizona, Vasil is now vying for a spot in the White Sox starting rotation, demonstrating his versatility and readiness to contribute in multiple roles.
“It was cool that I could pitch in a bunch of different roles for me to focus on getting better every day. I’m not really looking to do one thing or the other, but for me to have the opportunity to go out and win a spot is huge and I’m looking forward to making the most of it,”
Vasil said earlier during camp.
Challenging Start Highlights Areas for Improvement
Vasil recently started against the Milwaukee Brewers at Camelback Ranch, allowing one run on three hits with one strikeout and two walks over 1 1/3 innings. He described his outing as “pretty bad,” noting that his sinker was “way off.” Despite the difficulties, Vasil remains determined to improve.
“Prior to this, (the sinker) was feeling great. You are always going to have those days. For me, it’s going to happen with working on the shape and command of it. It’s important I was able to be in a game situation and experience that because now I’ve got some good stuff to work on,”
he explained.
He threw 42 pitches during the outing, with just 23 strikes, highlighting the need for better command and consistency.
Rotation Competition Remains Open as Team Evaluates Pitching Options
The White Sox rotation is still in flux, with offseason acquisition Anthony Kay expected to take one of the starting spots, alongside young arms Shane Smith and Davis Martin. In his most recent start against the Colorado Rockies at Salt River Fields, Smith allowed three runs (two earned) on two hits and one walk over 1 2/3 innings.
“It’s good to get back out there again,”
Smith said.
“I did a decent job filling up the zone and winning the race to (two strikes). Getting a walk is frustrating, but other than that I filled up the zone pretty good.”
Other pitchers include Sean Burke, Jonathan Cannon, Erick Fedde, Chris Murphy, and Sean Newcomb, all of whom have starting experience in the majors or minors. Burke impressed recently with one hit allowed in two scoreless innings. Manager Will Venable emphasized letting pitchers “get their feet wet” before making decisions on the rotation.
“We’re not making any decisions here on these first couple (outings), want to let these guys get their feet wet,”
Venable stated.
“But it’s nice to be out there competing and seeing these guys.”
He also praised Vasil’s return to the mound following his rookie season, as well as other pitchers getting opportunities during camp.
“You think about all the moments (Vasil) had last year and just to see him back on the mound was great. Same with these other guys, some of these guys we haven’t seen before. It’s nice to see them go out there and do their thing.”
Vasil’s 2025 Performance and Development Focus
Vasil, who will turn 26 next month, finished the 2025 season with a 5-3 record and a 2.50 ERA over 47 appearances. After being claimed off waivers by the White Sox from the Tampa Bay Rays in March, he pitched 101 innings, striking out 82 batters but also walking 52. He led all major league relievers with 25 outings of at least two innings.
Reflecting on his approach, Vasil said,
“It’s still the same vibe that I like to go out there and compete, and whatever role I’m in, I like to feel like I earned it.”
He referenced his journey through Rule 5 draft status to the current camp competition.
“So even last year, I guess I was Rule 5 competing for a spot, but I knew I was going to pitch wherever at some point during the year. It’s still the same thing. I’m getting ready for the season. I want to be in the best possible position. Today, kind of punched myself in the face. For me, it’s just a way to be like, ‘OK, you have some stuff to work on right now, let’s get to it.’”
Command and Strike Zone Control Are Key Targets for Improvement
Manager Will Venable stressed the importance of Vasil’s ability to throw strikes consistently.
“He has to be in the zone … top of the list for him,”
Venable said.
“When he’s in the zone, he can be as effective as anybody. It’s about commanding that baseball and being aggressive in the zone.”
Team Updates: Player Health and Daily Adjustments
The White Sox faced the Colorado Rockies on Monday without shortstop Colson Montgomery, who was sidelined due to illness. Venable noted that Montgomery had completed his workout but was feeling unwell and that resting and hydration were priorities early in the season.
“He got his workout in and was just not feeling well,”
Venable said.
“He wanted to play. I just thought at this time in the year, it was better for him to get hydrated and recover.”
