Kopech could make an impact in the major leagues sooner as a reliever than a starter, according to one National League scout, Dan Hayes of CSN Chicago reports.

EDGE Analysis

The White Sox will continue to prepare Kopech as a starter, but the subject of using him as a reliever was raised after the young right-hander struck out five in two relief innings Friday. Aside from any young pitcher's goal of improving fastball command, Kopech also needs to develop his changeup. Developing the changeup and building the arm strength to throw 200 innings in a season will take time. At present, his elite fastball (rated 80 on the 20-80 scale) and slider (60) suggest he could pitch as a late-inning reliever immediately. Given that the White Sox aren't in a position to contend immediately, we expect Kopech to remain on track to be a starter.