White Sox Announce Date for Michael Kopech's First Start Since Tommy John Surgery

The Chicago White Sox caught a glimpse of just how special pitching prospect Michael Kopech is when he made his major-league debut at the back end of the 2018 season.

Kopech allowed just one earned run in his first three starts over 11 innings pitched before imploding in a 10-2 loss to the Tigers in his fourth career start. Kopech was pulled in the fourth inning having allowed seven earned runs, and was placed on the IL two days later, subsequently undergoing Tommy John surgery. The 23-year old was out for the year and also missed the entire 2019 season. Well, he's nearing a return to the mound, and the White Sox revealed that he's scheduled to pitch in the coming week.

Kopech is scheduled to make his 2020 Spring Training debut Tuesday against the Rangers. The White Sox No. 3 prospect has participated in both bullpen and live BP sessions this spring, and will make his first start since his Tommy John surgery at Camelback Ranch in Phoenix.

There's a good chance Kopech isn't in position to crack Chicago's 26-man Opening Day roster due to setbacks with his arm, but the fact that's he ready to return to the mound for live-action is a great sign for White Sox fans.

With talent like his, he's sure to make the leap once he's stretched out a bit longer. After spending big this offseason, the White Sox will be keen to have as much talent in the bigs as possible, but they're in no need to rush back Kopech, who ranks as the game's No. 20 overall prospect.

Kopech has a one-inning limit for his start Tuesday. Soon enough, Chicago fans will remember what it's like to watch him deliver his blistering fastballs and high-velocity off-speed pitches.