White Sox Zack Burdi: Pitching Prospect to Watch in 2017

The White Sox traded away two important pieces this offseason. The are rumors that they could trade two relievers, paving the way for Zack Burdi’s debut.

The Chicago White Sox have been sellers so far this offseason. With the departure of two staples in Chris Sale and Adam Eaton, it’s only a matter of time before the next piece is traded. There have already been rumors about Chicago trading one if not both of their bullpen options. If so, prospect Zack Burdi could make his debut sooner rather than later.

Trading two important pieces is a clear sign they are rebuilding. Closer David Robertson could be the next White Sox player ending with another team in 2017. The Washington Nationals are in desperate need of a closer and Robertson would be a good fit. This would put Nate Jones in the role.

However, Jones could also see himself traded by the deadline. Looking at the rest of the bullpen, there isn’t any one pitcher that I see stepping up and taking that role. That’s where Burdi comes in.

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The White Sox are very high on Burdi, pushing him through all three levels of the minors in just one year. In that year, though, Burdi had a pretty good season. He pitched in 38 innings, posting a 3.32 ERA and 1.132 WHIP. He also had a 12.1 K/9 and 4.7 BB/9.

In that year, though, Burdi had a pretty good season. He pitched in 38 innings, posting a 3.32 ERA and 1.132 WHIP. He also had a 12.1 K/9 and 4.7 BB/9.

Burdi is a hard thrower but has trouble controlling his pitches. The 20 walks is a problem he will need to work on this season. Veteran hitters will know to lay off pitches if Burdi can’t right the ship.

Mixed in with his fastball is a 90 MPH slider that will help him greatly in the majors. There have been plenty of relievers that relied on two pitches, some even dominated with just one.

Our friends over at Southside Showdown are a little skeptical of Burdi this season. They want to see Burdi in the majors, but not for the sake of his development. It doesn’t benefit the rebuilding White Sox to bring him up when he isn’t at his best.

In dynasty or big keeper leagues, Burdi will be one of those players worth stashing now for 2018 or maybe even later this season.

Next: Trusting Marcus Semien in 2017

Burdi’s value is based on what the White Sox do with their closers this year.  If Robertson and Jones stay with the team, Burdi will stay in the minors for a little more seasoning. If Robertson or the pair of relievers are traded, then expect to see Burdi in the final two months of the season.