The Wolfpacker: An Independent Magazine Covering NC State Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/503388
82 ■ THE WOLFPACKER ■ PACK PROS Carlos Rodon Makes MLB Debut BY RYAN TICE F ormer NC State All-American pitcher Carlos Rodon made a bid to make the Chicago White Sox' roster out of spring training, which he spent with the big league club. He was 2-0 with a 3.06 ERA and 21 strikeouts in 17 2 ⁄3 innings pitched over six appearances and five starts. However, when the season began, Rodon was sent down to Triple-A Charlotte, which is where the franchise's top prospect ended last season. The left-handed pitcher looked like he was ready for "The Show," but the Sox reportedly sent him down to work on his fastball control and continue developing his change-up. They also had contractual- related reasons to have him start the cam- paign in the minor leagues — by doing so, they can prevent the player from accruing a year of major league service, which means they delayed his free agency eligibility for a year. It was not long before Rodon got the call, though. He was officially brought up April 20, two days before he was sched- uled to pitch close to his collegiate home against the Durham Bulls. The lefty made two starts with Charlotte and was 1-0 with a 3.60 ERA and 13 strikeouts in 10 innings pitched. He picked up his first professional win in the season opener, striking out a career- high nine. Over the last two seasons, the Rodon, who was the No. 3 overall selection in the 2014 MLB Draft, became the second player from his draft class to reach the majors. PHOTO COURTESY CHARLOTTE KNIGHTS