In an unexpected turn of events, Shane Smith, who barely pitched over ten innings during his college tenure at Wake Forest due to a series of injuries, has emerged as a beacon of hope for the Chicago White Sox, languishing at the bottom of the league. After undergoing both shoulder and elbow surgeries and having his sophomore season halted by the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith contemplated his future in baseball. “To say my dream of playing professional baseball didn’t waver would be a lie,” he admits, yet a “pathway” always seemed plausible.
Smith was drafted by the White Sox in the Rule 5 draft, a move that could significantly impact the team’s current rebuilding phase. Joining him is Mike Vasil, another promising 25-year-old right-hander who was secured off waivers from Tampa Bay in March. The Rule 5 draft provides players not placed on major league 40-man rosters after years in the minors a chance to prove themselves. Teams pay $100,000 to draft a player, who must remain on the major league roster all season or be returned to their original team for half the price.
The Rule 5 draft often sees a host of players selected, but few maintain a lasting presence with their new teams. However, Smith and Vasil appear to be enduring exceptions for the White Sox. Smith boasts a 2.37 ERA across 68 1/3 innings in 13 starts, while Vasil impresses with a 1.99 ERA over 45 1/3 innings, primarily out of the bullpen.
Smith and Vasil could potentially represent the struggling White Sox at the upcoming All-Star Game in Atlanta. Historically, few Rule 5 selections have ascended to All-Star status in their inaugural season, with Dan Uggla in 2006 being a notable exception.
Despite the precarious position of Rule 5 players, Vasil chooses not to dwell on it. “I’ve spent my entire life trying to get here. It’s already hard enough, don’t add extra pressure,” Vasil reflects. His journey to the White Sox includes stints with the New York Mets, from where he was drafted in 2021, followed by the Philadelphia Phillies, and then the Rays.
Vasil showcased his talent in Chicago’s bullpen, initially impressing with a 1.89 ERA over 18 appearances. His versatility, highlighted by a potent mix of six pitches, positions him as a strong candidate for the starting rotation. His performance included a notable four-inning shutout against Texas.
Smith entered the White Sox’s starting rotation directly from spring training, a rarity for a Rule 5 pitcher. Historical parallels include Luis Perdomo and Brad Keller, among rare others, who made substantial starts post-Rule 5 selection. Starting with a background of 32 appearances in the minors last season, Smith’s ascent has been marked by a lively fastball and an improved changeup, contributing significantly to his performance.
The White Sox, capitalizing on Smith’s advantageous timing and skills, see potential in his progress. “Considering Shane’s limited experience above Double-A, his performance here speaks to his talent and confidence,” White Sox General Manager Chris Getz states. The expectation is for Smith to maintain productivity and health throughout the season.
This promising duo of Smith and Vasil stands as a testament to talent recognition and a strategic move for a franchise seeking revival in the league.