Chicago White Sox prospect Michael Kopech missed the start of summer camp on Friday due to a personal matter.
General manager Rick Hahn said he does not have a timeline for the 24-year-old’s return.
“Given the time we are living together, I will try to answer the question that is probably on everyone’s mind now and I simply share the fact that Michael is currently healthy,” Hahn said in a video conference.
Kopech returns from Tommy John surgery in September 2018. He hit a triple digit on the radar gun during his first appearance in spring training.
He was chosen for Triple-A Charlotte on March 26 and would probably have started the year in the minors if the season had started on time, but the coronavirus pandemic delayed him. Kopech is now in the mix for a spot in the starting rotation, depending on how long he’s away from the team due to personal issues.
“I know it’s very general, and I’m not going to be more specific than that, other than that we fully support Michael and provide him with the time and resources he needs and look forward to seeing him in the future,” said Hahn. said. “This doesn’t just apply to Michael, it applies to everything related to this whole season. You know, things are a little bit everyday.”
Kopech was acquired by Chicago in the December 2016 trade that sent Chris Sale to the Boston Red Sox. He made his major league debut in 2018, going 1-1 with a 5.02 ERA in four starts.
Hahn said infielder Cheslor Cuthbert also missed the start of camp due to travel problems from Nicaragua. Cuthbert is expected to join the team next week.
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