Triple-A Charlotte pitcher Michael Kopech hit a big bump in the road in his start against the Norfolk Tides on Thursday, walking eight and allowing five earned runs in just three innings. It was his second wild outing in a row as he allowed five walks in six innings June 8, though he struck out 10.
In early May, Kopech stopped short of saying he’s “beyond ready” for a leap to the majors but expressed confidence in the strides he had made locating his fastball and developing off-speed pitches. But in the wake of June’s swoon, manager Rick Renteria suggested before the Sox’s game Friday night with the Tigers that the top prospect get back to basics.