Mike Clevinger DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Chicago White Sox right-handed pitcher Mike Clevinger is reportedly near the top of the list for ninth-inning options heading into the regular season. White Sox manager Will Venable said he might use multiple players in the closer role, but said Clevinger could be an early favorite for saves on the South Side. The veteran right-hander has done a nice job through a few spring appearances, but this will be his first time being a full-time reliever. Clevinger only made four starts for the White Sox last season, but posted a 3.77 ERA across 24 starts in 2023. Honestly, Clevinger might be a viable closing option, but the White Sox probably aren't going to give him enough chances to warrant rostering him in most fantasy formats.

Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Mike Clevinger could be making the transition into the bullpen. The right-hander recently signed a minor-league deal with the team. The assumption is that Clevinger would be competing for a spot in the starting rotation. That might not be the case as Clevinger reportedly could be headed to the bullpen. It's unclear if the team plans to use him in a late-inning type of role or a long relief pitcher. Regardless, it's unlikely that Clevinger could be a viable fantasy option in either of those roles. He posted a 3.77 ERA across 24 starts with the White Sox in 2023. Clevinger looks to rebound in 2025 after posting a 6.75 ERA in what was a injury-plagued 2024 season for the right-hander. Possibly a move to the bullpen could help Clevinger get his career back on track.

Right-handed pitcher Mike Clevinger signed a minor-league contract with the Chicago White Sox. Clevinger will also be invited to spring training. The 24-year-old logged just 20 2/3 innings with the White Sox last season as he battled numerous injuries. During this small stint, Clevinger posted a 6.75 ERA and a 1.94 WHIP. He tallied just 15 punchouts. He underwent disc replacement surgery in July, which cut his season short. However, during the 2023 season, Clevinger held a solid 3.77 ERA and a 1.23 WHIP across 131 1/3 innings with the White Sox. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status during spring training, as Clevinger could compete for a spot at the back of the starting rotation. Clevinger will likely compete alongside Bryse Wilson, Jake Eder, and Jared Shuster. In addition, Drew Thorpe (elbow) is unlikely to be ready for Opening Day, which could also provide Clevinger with a viable path to earn a spot.