Tommy John Surgery Claims Another White Sox Victim

You wouldn't be wrong if a White Sox pitcher needing Tommy John surgery sounds familiar. Drew Thorpe is the latest victim, according to James Fegan of SoxMachine. Thorpe is now the fifth White Sox pitcher to fall to the Tommy John bug since spring training started, joining Ky Bush, Prelander Berroa, Blake Larson, and Juan Carela.

Thorpe's Injury Issues

Acquired in the Dylan Cease trade with the San Diego Padres, Thorpe made a strong first impression in the White Sox organization last season. He dominated the AA level with the Birmingham Barons before getting called up to the majors in early June. He performed well for the most part with the White Sox big league club until he finished with two straight stinkers before going on the injured list in early August. Tests revealed bone spur issues in his elbow, ending his season. Thorpe subsequently had a procedure to address the issue in September last year.

Subsequent Setbacks

Thorpe reportedly had setbacks during his recovery process over the offseason and had a cortisone shot in late January, per Scott Merkin of MLB.com. He appeared to be on the right track this spring following that treatment until he exited a rehab start early on Thursday with elbow discomfort. Manager Will Venable told reporters that the team would do an evaluation and imaging on Thorpe's injury. Unfortunately, it is the worst-case scenario.

Devastating Development For White Sox

This development is a devastating blow for the White Sox. Thorpe figured to be an integral part of the team's starting rotation heading into the future. That is now up in the air. Thorpe will undoubtedly miss the entire 2025 season and likely a good chunk of the 2026 season as well. The only consolation is that other pitchers will have the chance to step in his absence. Sean Burke, Jonathan Cannon, and Shane Smith, who are all projected to be part of the Opening Day roster, will now have a more extended opportunity to show what they can do with Thorpe out of the equation for now. The White Sox also have top pitching prospects Noah Schultz, Hagen Smith, and Grant Taylor, who could all factor into the equation in Chicago sooner rather than later.

Brandon Drury's Injury

Fegan also announced that infielder Brandon Drury has a fractured left thumb. One of the team's top performers in spring training, Drury's injury was initially described as a bruised hand. It is clearly more significant than initially thought. He will also begin the season on the injured list, though the timetable for his return is not yet known. His absence in the short term could open the door for a player like Bryan Ramos and Brooks Baldwin to make the Opening Day roster.