Brandon McCarthy Gets Shot at White Sox Rotation

Brandon McCarthy has pitched poorly in the White Sox bullpen this year -- 2-1 with a 5.21 ERA and 11 Ks in 19 innings -- but maybe the starting rotation will be more to his liking. McCarthy has been named to replace knuckleballing rookie Charlie Haeger, who was sent down after getting his head handed to him by the Los Angeles Angels. Haeger, 23, earned a callup with his 3-0 record and 0.68 ERA for AAA Charlotte, but was pulled in the fourth inning of Wednesday's game after giving up six walks and six runs. Haeger attributed his failure to overthrowing, as his so-called "fastball" was clocked in the 70s whereas he usually pitches in the 60s when he's effective. McCarthy, who will start Monday, will be held to a 70-pitch count as he has had no time to stretch his arm out. Win, lose or draw, McCarthy will go back to the bullpen when regular starter Jose Contreras returns from the disabled list next week.