Seeking the Stopper: Who Will Anchor the Rotation in the Final Leg of the Homestand? .v1

CHICAGO — Every great team needs a “stopper”—a pitcher who can take the mound after a couple of losses and say, “the skid ends today.” As the White Sox prepare for the series finale against the Orioles on Wednesday, the question echoing through the clubhouse is: who is that man?

With Garrett Crochet now leading the rotation in Boston and the Sox staff in a state of transition, the role of the “Stopper” is currently up for grabs. On Wednesday, that responsibility falls to Sean Burke (0-1, 3.60 ERA).

The 2026 rotation has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks a definitive anchor.

Anthony Kay: Proved he belongs with a 6-inning gem vs. Toronto.

Shane Smith: High-strikeout potential but struggles with efficiency (99 pitches in 3.2 innings on Tuesday).

Erick Fedde: The veteran stabilizer looking to regain his 2024 form.

Drew Thorpe: The centerpiece of the future, still finding his footing after a spring injury.

Sean Burke has the “stuff” to be a stopper. His mid-90s heater and sharp slider have missed plenty of bats in the minors, but the Majors require a different level of consistency. Wednesday’s 2:10 PM start against Baltimore’s Kyle Bradish is the biggest start of Burke’s young career.

“We need a win to feel good about this homestand,” said GM Chris Getz. “Going 3-3 at home after a sweep would be a disappointment. We need someone to step up and give us six strong innings. Sean has the opportunity to be that guy.”

If Burke can stifle the Orioles and help the Sox salvage a series split, he might just earn the title of “Stopper” before the team boards the plane for Baltimore.