John Danks was penned to become the next great Chicago lefty pitcher. Through his first four seasons in the majors Danks won 46 games, and when he bet on himself in looking for a new contract he won big signing a five year $65 million contract.
Since, Danks has won a total of 32 games in the five seasons following. Of that isn’t telling enough, Danks has posted ERAs of 4.33, 5.70, 4.75, 4.74, and 4.79 respectively. Horribly bad results for a pitcher that is earning an average of $13 million a season.
Then enters the conundrum for White Sox general manager Rick Hahn. With Danks’ deal ending after the 2016 season, does Rick entertain the idea of resigning the pitcher? Just a few short weeks ago it would be a resounding no from the White Sox fanbase, but recent performance could start to sway their thoughts.
Yes, over Danks’ last six he has been mostly, great. If this continued play continues, could he work his way back into the White Sox plans for the future?
Possibly.
The White Sox have a number of young talented pitchers which they’ve acquired through the last several years drafts. Carlos Rodon, currently on the big League club, will not be joined by other Sox hurlers Frankie Montas and Spencer Adams for another couple seasons. With the expected departure of Jeff Samardzija after this season and Danks’ contract expiring after next, it begins to open the door for the Sox to retain the disappointing starter. Afterall, why spend more money when they could possibly retain Danks likely for less than a free agent might end up costing Hahn.
This could be a very interesting story to continue to watch as this season ends, and Danks’ performance progresses in 2016. Will it be worth retaining Danks? Glad I’m not answering that question.
