White Sox pen minor-league deal with alleged abuser
Of all the pitchers they could’ve signed, the South Siders bring the worst possible choice back for a THIRD engagement
This morning, which happened to be a snowy day in February, I woke up to the news that Mike Clevinger and the Chicago White Sox are in agreement on a minor-league contract. The deal includes an invite to Spring Training, because of course the White Sox had to make themselves as attractive as possible to the one player 29 other teams had no interest in. I knew 2025 wouldn’t be great as a fan, but as someone who also covers this team, this truly put the nail in the coffin.
It felt like Groundhog Day, but not the early 90’s comedy. Instead, it was a feeling of dejection. My body physically recoiled as I opened my 12 unread texts and saw his name and a lot of outraged exclamation points.
I have been open about my disappointment with Clevinger’s intial signing in 2023 and the White Sox bringing him back for a second season in 2024. In his first season with the White Sox, I donated over $500 to the Domestic Violence Hotline for every start. Even if I didn’t watch the game (and trust me, I tried to avoid his starts), it was the only way I could balance rooting for this team while dealing with the presence of an alleged abuser. I washed my hands of him, hoping he would be long gone after the season. But I was wrong.
Last season, he spent more time away, getting paid while on the injured list. My donations weren’t as large, but I highlighted Prevent Child Abuse America in 2024. I will continue with this organization this season if he happens to get any playing time, and I urge anyone who can to join me in trying to create something positive out of a decision that is terrible for the White Sox on every level.
I don’t appreciate the White Sox giving survivors like me the middle finger again this season. I was hoping the groundhog wouldn’t see his shadow, implying six months of Clevinger, but here we are.
Protect your inner peace, it’s bigger than baseball.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please seek help. You are not alone.
Here are some resources:
Domestic Violence Hotline
Prevent Child Abuse America
RAINN
The Network