White Sox Send Carlos Rodon To Minor Leagues

(CBS) In an expected move, the White Sox have sent left-hander Carlos Rodon down by reassigning him to minor league camp, they announced Wednesday.

Rodon was competing for the fifth starter's job with the big league club, but the team had hinted for some time that he'd likely start the season at Triple-A Charlotte. Rodon had a 3.06 ERA and 1.25 WHIP with 21 strikeouts in 17 2/3 innings in spring training.

Rodon will likely be called up later this season, as general manager Rick Hahn has said he expects him to contribute for the White Sox. Rodon has thrown fewer than 25 innings professionally, spring training excluded. He was Chicago's first-round draft pick last June.

"He's a special talent, and I expect he will help us one way or another in Chicago in the not-too-distant future," Hahn said recently.

By sending Rodon down for at least two weeks, the White Sox also ensure they'll retain an extra year of control on the back end of his contract.

In another move, the White Sox reassigned right-handed reliever Jesse Crain to minor league camp as well. They now have 36 players left on their spring roster: 20 pitchers, three catchers, eight infielders and five outfielders.

Chicago opens the season next Monday at Kansas City.