Michael Soroka: A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes of Injury
The Washington Nationals made a bold move this offseason by signing Michael Soroka. Despite his undeniable talent as a right-handed pitcher, Soroka has faced numerous setbacks due to injuries. Drafted 28th overall in 2015, he showed immense potential, finishing as the runner-up in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2019 with an impressive 2.68 ERA and 171 ERA+ across 29 starts.
However, Soroka’s promising career took a hit when he suffered two Achilles tears, forcing him to miss significant playing time. His struggles continued in 2020 with the Chicago White Sox, where he was moved to the bullpen after a challenging season, finishing with an 0-10 record and a 4.74 ERA.
Despite these setbacks, the Nationals saw potential in Soroka and signed him to a $9 million deal. With a roster filled with young, unproven arms, Soroka has the opportunity to revitalize his career in Washington. His recent spring debut showcased his determination and skill, as he delivered three scoreless innings against the St. Louis Cardinals, striking out three batters in the process.
Manager Dave Martinez praised Soroka’s performance, highlighting his strong outing and potential for the upcoming season. As the highest-paid pitcher on the team, Soroka carries the weight of expectations to deliver consistently during the regular season. His impressive spring debut serves as a promising start as he prepares for the challenges ahead in the upcoming year.