The Chicago White Sox received encouraging news regarding one of their most intriguing young pitchers. Drew Thorpe, who has been working his way back from Tommy John surgery, appears to be trending in the right direction after a recent injury scare.
Thorpe missed the entire 2025 season following the surgery, which was performed shortly after his MLB debut in 2024. The right-hander started nine games that season, finishing with a 5.48 ERA, before elbow issues ultimately led to the procedure.
Recent Setback Raises Concerns
Jul 31, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Drew Thorpe (33) throws against the Kansas City Royals during the first inning at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images
Thorpe’s recovery had been progressing smoothly throughout the offseason until tendinitis surfaced in his surgically repaired elbow about three weeks ago. The news immediately raised concerns that his rehab process could suffer another major setback.
Fortunately for the White Sox, the latest update suggests the issue may only cause a minor delay.
Positive Signs in Bullpen Session
According to reports from MLB.com’s Scott Merkin, Thorpe recently completed a 20-pitch bullpen session consisting entirely of fastballs.
Even more encouraging, he came away from the session feeling strong and is expected to throw again later this week as he continues building toward a full return.
Thorpe himself expressed optimism about the progress.
“Good sign, feeling good. Now it’s just feeling normal TJ rehab stuff versus anything extra. Bullpen was good on Tuesday, just continue to build on that.”
While the tendinitis may slow his timetable slightly, Thorpe believes it could only push his recovery back by a couple of weeks.
Still a Key Arm for the White Sox
Thorpe remains one of the most fascinating young pitchers in the White Sox organization. He was acquired from the San Diego Padres in the Dylan Cease trade, and his minor league track record quickly generated excitement.
Before his MLB debut, Thorpe dominated at Double-A in 2024, posting:
- 1.35 ERA
- 56 strikeouts in 60 innings
- 11 starts
The season prior, he compiled a 2.52 ERA across 23 starts between High-A and Double-A.
A Different Kind of Pitcher
Unlike many of Chicago’s pitching prospects known for overpowering velocity, Thorpe’s success comes from elite command and pitch quality.
His arsenal features:
- A devastating changeup
- An above-average slider
- Precise control that limits hard contact
That combination makes him a unique piece in a farm system already rich with high-octane arms.
Long Road Still Ahead
Despite the encouraging update, Thorpe still has significant rehab work ahead before returning to a major league mound. The White Sox are likely to proceed cautiously, especially given his recent elbow history.
Still, the latest development offers hope that the 25-year-old could eventually rejoin Chicago’s growing wave of young pitching talent.
For a team trying to climb back into contention, a healthy Drew Thorpe could still become an important part of the future. ⚾
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