The Chicago White Sox have made another unconventional pitching decision as they prepare for a chance to complete a sweep of the Cleveland Guardians in the American League Division Series.
Sean Newcomb will start Game 3 on Wednesday night, according to MLB.com White Sox beat writer Scott Merkin. The veteran left-hander will be the latest pitcher used in Chicago’s unconventional postseason pitching strategy.
The decision comes with the White Sox holding a 2-0 series lead after winning the first two games against Cleveland.
Newcomb’s start will mark the White Sox’s fifth consecutive bullpen game this postseason. Rather than relying on a traditional starter to work deep into games, Chicago has repeatedly used multiple pitchers to navigate opposing lineups.
That strategy worked again in Game 2. Cleveland starter Gavin Williams struck out 11 batters across five innings, but the White Sox rallied against the Guardians’ bullpen to secure a 4-3 victory.
Braden Montgomery delivered the biggest hit, driving in two runs with a go-ahead double in the sixth inning. Chicago’s bullpen then protected the lead and helped the White Sox move within one victory of the ALCS.
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The approach has become particularly important given the injuries affecting Chicago’s traditional rotation options. Instead of asking one pitcher to navigate a lineup multiple times, the White Sox have spread the workload among several arms.
Now, Newcomb will try to give Chicago another strong start to begin Game 3 before the bullpen takes over. The White Sox have already shown they are comfortable winning without a conventional starting-pitching formula.
Cleveland, meanwhile, is facing elimination and will turn to Daniel Espino in an effort to extend the series. If Chicago’s bullpen strategy works once again, the White Sox will complete the sweep and advance to the ALCS.
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