Mike Clevinger, a name familiar to baseball fans, continues to carve out a unique path in Major League Baseball. As of March 20, 2025, this veteran pitcher embarks on a fresh chapter with the Chicago White Sox. Known for his fiery competitiveness and distinctive style, Clevinger’s career takes an exciting turn this year. After battling injuries and transitioning roles, he now eyes a spot as a closer, a surprising shift for a player with a history rooted in starting rotations.
This article dives deep into Clevinger’s journey, from his early days to his latest developments. We explore his recent performances, health updates, and what lies ahead for the 34-year-old right-hander. With up-to-date information and a focus on his evolving role, fans get a front-row seat to his 2025 comeback story.
The Early Days: A Rising Star Emerges
Mike Clevinger’s baseball tale begins in Jacksonville, Florida, where he first gripped a ball as a kid. Born on December 21, 1990, he grew up with a passion for the game that shaped his future. He attended Wolfson High School, showing early promise as a pitcher with a strong arm. Colleges soon noticed, and he took his talents to The Citadel before transferring to Seminole State College.
In 2011, the Los Angeles Angels drafted him in the fourth round, launching his professional career. Clevinger worked his way through the minors, sharpening his skills and building resilience. His big break came in 2016 when the Cleveland Guardians (then Indians) called him up. That year, he debuted in the majors, striking out batters with a fastball that zipped and a slider that baffled hitters.
Clevinger’s early MLB years showcased his potential as a frontline starter. He posted a 13-6 record in 2017, proving he belonged among the league’s best. His funky delivery and tattooed arms became his trademarks, earning him the nickname “Sunshine.” Fans loved his energy, and he quickly became a Cleveland favorite.
Peaks and Valleys: Career Highlights and Setbacks
Clevinger’s time with the Guardians marked the peak of his early career. In 2019, he delivered a stellar 13-4 record with a 2.71 ERA, cementing his status as a rising star. He racked up 169 strikeouts over 126 innings, dazzling with his command and confidence. Analysts pegged him as a future ace, and he seemed destined for greatness.
However, injuries soon tested his grit. A back issue sidelined him in 2019, and a knee injury followed in 2020. Despite these hurdles, the San Diego Padres traded for him in 2020, betting on his upside. Clevinger pitched well in the shortened season, helping the Padres reach the playoffs. Yet, his luck turned again when he underwent Tommy John surgery later that year, wiping out his 2021 season entirely.
Returning in 2022, Clevinger showed flashes of his old self with the Padres. He finished 7-7 with a 4.33 ERA, a solid comeback after major surgery. Still, consistency eluded him, and he hit free agency that winter. The Chicago White Sox signed him to a one-year, $12 million deal in 2023, marking a new chapter in his journey.
The White Sox Era: A Rollercoaster Ride
Clevinger’s first stint with the White Sox in 2023 brought both triumphs and turbulence. He started 24 games, finishing 9-9 with a 3.77 ERA, a respectable showing for a team that struggled overall. His 110 strikeouts highlighted his ability to dominate, even as wrist and biceps injuries nagged him. Off the field, controversy swirled when allegations of domestic violence surfaced, though MLB’s investigation cleared him of discipline.
In 2024, Clevinger returned to Chicago on a $3 million, one-year deal. Expectations ran high, but injuries derailed his season early. Elbow inflammation landed him on the injured list in May, and neck stiffness complicated his rehab. He managed only four starts, posting a 0-3 record with a 6.75 ERA. A disc replacement surgery on his neck in August ended his campaign, leaving fans wondering about his future.
Despite the setbacks, Clevinger’s resilience shone through. He rehabbed diligently, aiming to reclaim his spot in the majors. His perseverance paid off when the White Sox offered him a minor-league contract in February 2025, complete with a spring training invite. This move signaled a fresh start—and a surprising twist in his role.
A New Role: From Starter to Closer
Perhaps the biggest headline of Clevinger’s 2025 story involves his transition to the bullpen. Historically a starter with 142 career starts, he now shifts gears to chase save opportunities. Manager Will Venable confirmed this shift in March, naming Clevinger a top candidate for the closer job. This change reflects both team strategy and Clevinger’s evolving career arc.
Why the switch? The White Sox prioritize younger arms like Garrett Crochet in their rotation, pushing veterans like Clevinger to relief roles. Plus, his injury history suggests shorter outings might keep him healthier. Clevinger last closed games in college back in 2011, so this marks uncharted territory. Still, his competitive fire and live arm make him a intriguing fit.
Spring training offers early clues to his progress. On March 9, Clevinger tossed a perfect inning against the Guardians, striking out two with just 11 pitches. His sweeper—a sharp-breaking pitch—looked nasty, and his velocity held steady. Venable praised his efficiency, hinting at bigger things ahead. Fans buzzed with excitement, eager to see “Sunshine” lock down ninth innings.
Health Update: A Fresh Start Post-Surgery
Clevinger’s health remains a key storyline in 2025. The neck surgery in August 2024 addressed a nagging issue that plagued his arm and hand. Numbness and muscle weakness had sapped his strength, dropping his velocity mid-game. Doctors initially feared Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, but the disc replacement fixed the root cause.
Now, Clevinger feels reborn. He reports no numbness, full strength, and a renewed sense of freedom on the mound. During a February bullpen session, he impressed White Sox brass with his zip and control. General Manager Chris Getz sees a bullpen fit, noting Clevinger’s readiness to compete. This optimism fuels hope that he sidesteps the injury bug this year.
Staying healthy looms large for Clevinger. His minor-league deal means he must earn a roster spot, and durability matters in the high-stakes relief role. If he thrives, a midseason trade could even loom, mirroring deals that sent Erick Fedde and Tommy Pham packing in 2024. For now, he focuses on stacking strong outings.
What’s Next: The 2025 Season Outlook
As spring training rolls on, Clevinger aims to lock down the closer gig. The White Sox, coming off a dismal 2024, crave stability in the ninth inning. Venable plans to test multiple relievers early, but Clevinger sits “near the top of the list.” His experience, even as a starter, gives him an edge over younger arms.
Analysts project a bounce-back year if he stays healthy. A successful transition could yield 20-25 saves, boosting his value and the team’s morale. His fastball-slider combo suits late-game pressure, and his veteran savvy helps him navigate tight spots. However, adapting to back-to-back appearances poses a challenge after years of starting.
Beyond stats, Clevinger’s personality electrifies the clubhouse. Teammates feed off his intensity, and fans adore his flair. Whether he thrives or stumbles, his journey promises drama. The White Sox kick off their season soon, and all eyes track Clevinger’s quest to redefine his legacy.
FAQs:
1. Why does Mike Clevinger switch from starting to closing in 2025?
Clevinger moves to the bullpen because the White Sox prioritize young starters and see him thriving in shorter bursts. His injury history also suggests relief work keeps him healthier long-term. Manager Will Venable believes his stuff suits the ninth inning, giving him a shot at saves.
2. How does Clevinger’s neck surgery impact his performance this year?
Cleveland The surgery fixed a disc issue that caused numbness and weakness, so he now throws with full strength and no pain. Early spring outings show crisp velocity and command, boosting his confidence. If the fix holds, he avoids the mid-game fade that plagued him in 2024.
3. What challenges does Clevinger face as a new closer?
CONMEBOL He must adjust to pitching on consecutive days, a stark contrast to a starter’s routine of rest between outings. Handling late-game pressure also tests his mental game, despite his experience. Building stamina for frequent appearances remains key to locking down the role.
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