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The Chicago White Sox began with their offseason plans on Monday as the team finalized a one-year deal with free-agent starting pitcher Mike Clevinger worth $12 million.

The deal has yet to be officially announced by the team as Clevinger still needs to complete a physical but the move is questionable at best for a team that is looking for significant improvement to their starting rotation this offseason.

Entering the offseason with Johnny Cueto being a free agent and uncertainty surrounding the health of Michael Kopech and the future of Lucas Giolito, the White Sox had several question marks in their rotation that needed to be addressed.

For the Sox, they believe that Clevinger will be their answer. Here is the thing about that thought, it is wrong. After missing the entire 2021 season while recovering from his second Tommy John surgery, Clevinger returned to the mound for the San Diego Padres in 2022.

He was not the same top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher that the team thought they were acquiring from the Cleveland Guardians in 2020.

Mike Clevinger is not the answer to the Chicago White Sox’s current needs.

In a tick over 114 innings pitched last season, Clevinger posted a 4.33 ERA but his FIP of 4.98 truly indicates the struggles he had with the Padres.

Furthermore, Clevinger’s average fastball velocity was down by nearly two mph last season in comparison to 2020.

Coupling the regression in velocity along with Clevinger’s strikeouts per 9 innings dropping from 8.6 in 2020 to 7.16 in 2022 and the White Sox have some work to do if they want Clevinger to return to finding success at the Major League level.

Especially when you consider the lack of competent fielding that will be backing up Clevinger when he is on the mound.

The White Sox are not getting the Clevinger that dominated the American League Central division when he was with the Guardians for the first five seasons of his career. The White Sox are getting a Clevinger that is broken and will only add to the question marks of their rotation.

For a team that is claiming to be strapped for cash this offseason, spending $12 million on a reclamation project in Clevinger is not smart business.

Unfortunately, Clevinger can not be depended on to be a competent starting pitcher at this point in his career. A much cheaper alternative for the White Sox, and likely more effective, would have been to re-sign Cueto.

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A skilled worker in the manufacturing industry can anticipate a lifetime of financial stability in a vibrant, in-demand field. But for many, getting the necessary training and education to launch a career in the trades can be daunting, and even cost prohibitive. The folks at Jane Addams Resource Center know there’s no time like the present to take your career—and your life—by the reins. 

Founded in 1985, as an economic development agency focused on preserving manufacturing jobs in and around the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, Jane Addams Resource Center (JARC) has blossomed into one of Chicago’s most vital resources for unemployed and low-income workers seeking careers in the trades. 

JARC operates under the guiding principles that people who work should not live in poverty, and that focusing on careers can lead to lasting, substantive change. At their three locations in Austin, Ravenswood, and Chatham, they’ve provided free job training programs for thousands of Chicagoans, empowering them to transform their lives and support their families through well-paying jobs while helping to fill a void of highly skilled workers in the U.S. manufacturing space.

As a 501c3 nonprofit, JARC is mission driven, focused on alleviating poverty in Chicago and promoting gainful paths to employment that lead to family sustaining wages. During this season of giving you can support JARC by making a contribution on 11/29 for Giving Tuesday.

Getting started on a brand-new career path with JARC’s job training program is as easy as registering for one of the weekly application sessions, which are held in person on the first Wednesday of each month, and virtually every Wednesday in between. Applicants can choose between several different programs focusing on in-demand skills, which currently include: Manufacturing Bridge Program, Fundamentals of Manufacturing, Mechanical Assembly, CNC Operating, and Welding. (Courses run anywhere from ten to 20 weeks.) Rather than a traditional classroom setting with long lectures and copious amounts of homework, JARC’s training programs simulate a manufacturing workplace environment, adhering to strict attendance and safety protocols, while prioritizing peer learning, teamwork, and leadership development through hands-on, project-based lessons. 

JARC applies a holistic lens when working with students; this approach better addresses their needs beyond career training and education alone. Trainees can tap into an array of support services, such as financial education and coaching, legal aid, and help with applying for Medicaid, and other public benefits. These services are also available at no cost, and students may be eligible for further assistance, such as prepaid public transit cards to offset the cost of commuting to class or funds to help pay for costly but necessary safety gear.

As JARC students prepare to complete their programs and transition into their new professions, they can utilize the center’s resume-writing services, mock interviews, and job-placement opportunities.In fact, some students are able to find employment through JARC before they even finish their studies. 

So whether you’re launching your career for the first time, seeking a change, returning to the workforce, or interested in improving your English language and math skills while learning a lucrative, exciting trade, JARC could be the place for you. 

Support JARC for Giving Tuesday today. Visit JARC online at www.jane-addams.org today to learn more about its programs and sign up for a Wednesday application session. 

This content is sponsored by Jane Addams Resource Corporation.

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A skilled worker in the manufacturing industry can anticipate a lifetime of financial stability in a vibrant, in-demand field. But for many, getting the necessary training and education to launch a career in the trades can be daunting, and even cost prohibitive. The folks at Jane Addams Resource Center know there’s no time like the present to take your career—and your life—by the reins. 

Founded in 1985, as an economic development agency focused on preserving manufacturing jobs in and around the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, Jane Addams Resource Center (JARC) has blossomed into one of Chicago’s most vital resources for unemployed and low-income workers seeking careers in the trades. 

JARC operates under the guiding principles that people who work should not live in poverty, and that focusing on careers can lead to lasting, substantive change. At their three locations in Austin, Ravenswood, and Chatham, they’ve provided free job training programs for thousands of Chicagoans, empowering them to transform their lives and support their families through well-paying jobs while helping to fill a void of highly skilled workers in the U.S. manufacturing space.

As a 501c3 nonprofit, JARC is mission driven, focused on alleviating poverty in Chicago and promoting gainful paths to employment that lead to family sustaining wages. During this season of giving you can support JARC by making a contribution on 11/29 for Giving Tuesday.

Getting started on a brand-new career path with JARC’s job training program is as easy as registering for one of the weekly application sessions, which are held in person on the first Wednesday of each month, and virtually every Wednesday in between. Applicants can choose between several different programs focusing on in-demand skills, which currently include: Manufacturing Bridge Program, Fundamentals of Manufacturing, Mechanical Assembly, CNC Operating, and Welding. (Courses run anywhere from ten to 20 weeks.) Rather than a traditional classroom setting with long lectures and copious amounts of homework, JARC’s training programs simulate a manufacturing workplace environment, adhering to strict attendance and safety protocols, while prioritizing peer learning, teamwork, and leadership development through hands-on, project-based lessons. 

JARC applies a holistic lens when working with students; this approach better addresses their needs beyond career training and education alone. Trainees can tap into an array of support services, such as financial education and coaching, legal aid, and help with applying for Medicaid, and other public benefits. These services are also available at no cost, and students may be eligible for further assistance, such as prepaid public transit cards to offset the cost of commuting to class or funds to help pay for costly but necessary safety gear.

As JARC students prepare to complete their programs and transition into their new professions, they can utilize the center’s resume-writing services, mock interviews, and job-placement opportunities.In fact, some students are able to find employment through JARC before they even finish their studies. 

So whether you’re launching your career for the first time, seeking a change, returning to the workforce, or interested in improving your English language and math skills while learning a lucrative, exciting trade, JARC could be the place for you. 

Support JARC for Giving Tuesday today. Visit JARC online at www.jane-addams.org today to learn more about its programs and sign up for a Wednesday application session. 

This content is sponsored by Jane Addams Resource Corporation.

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A skilled worker in the manufacturing industry can anticipate a lifetime of financial stability in a vibrant, in-demand field. But for many, getting the necessary training and education to launch a career in the trades can be daunting, and even cost prohibitive. The folks at Jane Addams Resource Center know there’s no time like the present to take your career—and your life—by the reins. 

Founded in 1985, as an economic development agency focused on preserving manufacturing jobs in and around the Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, Jane Addams Resource Center (JARC) has blossomed into one of Chicago’s most vital resources for unemployed and low-income workers seeking careers in the trades. 

JARC operates under the guiding principles that people who work should not live in poverty, and that focusing on careers can lead to lasting, substantive change. At their three locations in Austin, Ravenswood, and Chatham, they’ve provided free job training programs for thousands of Chicagoans, empowering them to transform their lives and support their families through well-paying jobs while helping to fill a void of highly skilled workers in the U.S. manufacturing space.

As a 501c3 nonprofit, JARC is mission driven, focused on alleviating poverty in Chicago and promoting gainful paths to employment that lead to family sustaining wages. During this season of giving you can support JARC by making a contribution on 11/29 for Giving Tuesday.

Getting started on a brand-new career path with JARC’s job training program is as easy as registering for one of the weekly application sessions, which are held in person on the first Wednesday of each month, and virtually every Wednesday in between. Applicants can choose between several different programs focusing on in-demand skills, which currently include: Manufacturing Bridge Program, Fundamentals of Manufacturing, Mechanical Assembly, CNC Operating, and Welding. (Courses run anywhere from ten to 20 weeks.) Rather than a traditional classroom setting with long lectures and copious amounts of homework, JARC’s training programs simulate a manufacturing workplace environment, adhering to strict attendance and safety protocols, while prioritizing peer learning, teamwork, and leadership development through hands-on, project-based lessons. 

JARC applies a holistic lens when working with students; this approach better addresses their needs beyond career training and education alone. Trainees can tap into an array of support services, such as financial education and coaching, legal aid, and help with applying for Medicaid, and other public benefits. These services are also available at no cost, and students may be eligible for further assistance, such as prepaid public transit cards to offset the cost of commuting to class or funds to help pay for costly but necessary safety gear.

As JARC students prepare to complete their programs and transition into their new professions, they can utilize the center’s resume-writing services, mock interviews, and job-placement opportunities.In fact, some students are able to find employment through JARC before they even finish their studies. 

So whether you’re launching your career for the first time, seeking a change, returning to the workforce, or interested in improving your English language and math skills while learning a lucrative, exciting trade, JARC could be the place for you. 

Support JARC for Giving Tuesday today. Visit JARC online at www.jane-addams.org today to learn more about its programs and sign up for a Wednesday application session. 

This content is sponsored by Jane Addams Resource Corporation.

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The Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers renew their rivalry this Sunday at Soldier Field. The Packers are in the middle of a highly disappointing season so there is not a whole lot on the line in this game.

Although, one of these teams will move into sole possession of first place on the NFL’s all-time victories list.

Packers quarterback and unofficial Chicago Bears owner, Aaron Rodgers has a broken thumb and left the Philadelphia Eagles game with a rib injury. His status for the game is unknown although Rodgers plans to play if he is medically cleared.

Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields is nursing a shoulder injury that kept him out of the Bears’ loss to the New York Jets. Backup quarterback Trevor Siemian played in that game with an oblique injury that nearly kept him from even playing.

There is a possibility of Jordan Love and Nathan Peterman starting at quarterback when the two rivals face off for the 206th time.

While this is normally the Chicago Bears fans’ version of the Super Bowl, the Bears currently have the second overall pick in the NFL Draft.

Beating the Packers could alter the Bears’ draft position. Taking a loss to the Packers in the grand scheme of things would not be all that bad.

The second pick is a prime draft slot for the Bears to hold onto because it would allow general manager Ryan Poles to get a massive draft-pick haul if he trades down to a team desperate for a quarterback. If he wants to stay at the second pick, he could take a game-wrecking defensive lineman.

The Chicago Bears have a lot of roster holes. They could use help at pretty much every position besides quarterback and running back.

The Bears will go into the 2023 offseason with over $125 million in salary cap space. That is a lot of money to spend on free agency and address the woeful offensive line.

The Bears should really consider bringing in this Packers offensive lineman.

Elgton Jenkins is set to hit free agency this offseason. He is a versatile lineman who can play both guard and tackle. He is ranked among the top 10 free agents available in 2023.

He has committed just four penalties and allowed just three sacks this season on an offensive line that has struggled to protect Aaron Rodgers.

Jenkins has played every position on the line except right guard. He made the Pro Bowl in 2020 as a left guard.

The Chicago Bears have Cody Whitehair at left guard but they could use Jenkins at either tackle position. Elgton Jenkins would be an immediate upgrade over Braxton Jones or Larry Borom. Plus, he is just entering the prime years of his career.

Jenkins has ties to offensive coordinator Luke Getsy from their days together in Green Bay. The only problem with Jenkins is he missed most of 2021 with a torn ACL and he has missed two games this season with injuries.

When healthy, Jenkins is a really good lineman. Signing an offensive lineman is not a headline-grabbing move but the Bears will not make any progress in 2023 if they do not upgrade the protection around Justin Fields.

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It was an eventful morning for the Chicago Bears as they entered into a Week 12 matchup with the New York Jets.

In a year where they indeed know who their quarterback of the future is in Justin Fields, the Bears didn’t even know who would start the game against the Jets. It ended up being Trevor Siemian instead of Nathan Peterman, who looked like the starter for a split-second.

But, in any event, the Bears lost another game — their fifth straight — and dropped to 3-9.

That loss, coupled with a handful of other low-tier teams winning, put the Bears in excellent position for the 2023 NFL Draft. Now, fans are starting to look at the possibilities of what the Bears could end up doing.

The Chicago Bears could make things real interesting in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Looking at the way the 2023 NFL Draft order is shaking out, there are currently five teams within the top 10 that could — and should — trade up with the Bears in order to land a franchise quarterback.

1. Houston Texans

2. Chicago Bears

3. Detroit Lions (via LAR)

4. Seattle Seahawks (via DEN)

5. Pittsburgh Steelers

6. Carolina Panthers

7. Philadelphia Eagles (via NO)

8. Arizona Cardinals

9. Green Bay Packers

10. Las Vegas Raiders

At number one, the Houston Texans will take whichever quarterback they believe to be “their guy” between Alabama’s Bryce Young and Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud. From there, things will get very interesting.

Let’s look at what exactly the Bears could get for that second overall pick, should they stay put through the end of the season. Take one of the more recent blockbuster trades we’ve seen, just for an example.

The San Francisco 49ers sat outside the top 10, but not by much. They swapped first rounders in 2021, plus had to send a pair of first-round picks in 2022 and 2023, accompanied by an additional third rounder — to move up nine spots.

Assuming the Bears could get something similar, general manager Ryan Poles is going to have an absolute blast in negotiations.

Let’s say a team like Vegas wants to move up and move on from Derek Carr, along with the mess that’s become of their 2022 season. They move up from pick no. 10, to pick no. 2, with a package like this.

Knowing what we know now about Fields, and some of the other cornerstones on this roster, think of the possibilities with a trade like the above.

The Bears would then have an opportunity to trade down even further with a team like Seattle, who owns the 16th overall pick, should the Seahawks see a player they cannot live without.

The possibilities of adding draft capital are endless, really. This might end up being one of the most fun drafts in Bears history, and one that could immediately turn the tides in a positive way for the future of this organization.

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