Anthony Kay, a starting pitcher for the Chicago White Sox, remains confident despite a slow start this season. ‘I’m here to do a job and they know I’m capable of doing it,’ Kay stated on Thursday. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidence, making adjustments, and consistently performing well. ‘Thankfully we made some good ones to get right on the mound and put together some good results,’ he added.
Recently, Kay’s performance has significantly improved, showcasing a 3-0 record with a 1.98 ERA, a .227 opponent batting average, and 24 strikeouts over his last five games. He is set to start against the Detroit Tigers at Rate Field on Saturday.
According to manager Will Venable, Kay has effectively adjusted his approach. ‘He’s made his adjustments,’ Venable said, highlighting Kay’s time pitching in Japan during 2024 and 2025 as experience in adapting his game. Venable praised Kay’s determination and hard work.
Overall, Kay has earned a 4-1 record with a 3.96 ERA. He has recorded 39 strikeouts and 23 walks over 52 1/3 innings, with a notable 10 hit batters. Initially struggling with a 6.12 ERA in his first six outings, Kay allowed 17 earned runs in 25 innings. However, in his last five starts, he allowed just six earned runs over 27 innings. Conversations with pitching coach Zach Bove regarding pitch sequence and counts have been beneficial for him.
Before joining the White Sox, Kay spent time with several other teams including the Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets, and played for Yokohama BayStars in Japan. This offseason, he signed a two-year deal with the White Sox. Kay’s confidence in his abilities has grown, as he acknowledges, ‘The last month I’ve shown that I’m capable of belonging here and being a good pitcher here.’
Kay also enjoys team camaraderie, playfully challenging other starters after they have strong performances, ‘Just try to keep things light,’ he shared.
Reliever Jordan Leasure placed on IL
The White Sox moved reliever Jordan Leasure to the 15-day injured list due to a right flexor strain. Leasure experienced discomfort prior to and during his appearance in the seventh inning against the Minnesota Twins on Thursday. ‘I always try to push myself,’ Leasure explained, expressing hesitation about withdrawing from the game but ultimately seeking a medical evaluation.
Leasure has a 6.27 ERA with 18 strikeouts over 18 2/3 innings this season. He previously went to Triple-A Charlotte on May 7 and returned on May 23. Venable mentioned that Leasure had experienced elbow soreness throughout the year which culminated in a flexor strain diagnosis. Leasure will be shut down for eight to ten weeks for recovery and rebuilding.
In response, the White Sox recalled reliever Tyler Gilbert from Charlotte to fill the roster spot.