The Athletic · May 5, 2016
Rodon learns danger of throwing a meatball to Big Papi
Before his start Wednesday night, White Sox pitcher Carlos Rodon scratched the number 50 on the mound in honor of former teammate John Danks, who is officially getting released by the White Sox on Thursday.
Danks was a well-respected teammate and a mentor to Rodon, now in his second season in the majors. Jose Quintana also honored Danks on Tuesday night, though he didn’t need any inspiration to shut down Boston.
“Johnny’s my boy,” Rodon said. “I figured he was watching maybe. I think Q did it too. A tribute to Johnny.”
The spirit of Danks, who had a 7.25 ERA in four starts, didn’t uplift Rodon, who struggled with his slider and fastball command in a 5-2 loss to Boston.