Sources: White Sox scratched Chris Sale from start due to uniform dispute
The Chicago White Sox scratched left-handed pitcher Chris Sale from his scheduled start against the Detroit Tigers at U.S. Cellular Field on Saturday night because of a uniform dispute, FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal reports.
According to sources, "Sale asked that they not wear (throwbacks) on his day because they are uncomfortable. Things escalated when they wouldn't relent."
Sale then apparently cut up the throwbacks prior to the game.
Verducci just said on @FS1 telecast that what Sale did is insubordination. Part of Uniform Player Contract. He does not set workplace rules.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 24, 2016
On Saturday, the White Sox announced that Sale was scratched from his start due to a "clubhouse incident" that was "non-physical in nature," general manager Rick Hahn said in a statement. "The White Sox will have no additional comment until the investigation is completed."
Relief pitcher Matt Albers started in Sale's stead.
Source: Sale had picked his #WhiteSox jersey for every previous start. Every Sox starter does.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 24, 2016
Clarification: Earlier this year Sale pitched in Detroit when #WhiteSox wore special blue uniforms at request of #Tigers.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 24, 2016
"1976 navy blue throwback jerseys" were on #WhiteSox promotional schedule all year. Tied to giveaway. Team also wore similar once last year.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 24, 2016
The last-minute news will no doubt add to the swirl of rumors that the White Sox may trade the 27-year-old Sale, who is 14-3 with a 3.18 ERA this season, and attempting to become the first the first 15-game winner in the majors.
The five-time All-Star has spoken out against his team in the past. This March, Sale publicly criticized White Sox EVP Kenny Williams and hung former teammate Adam LaRoche's jersey in his locker when the team said LaRoche's son would no longer be allowed in the clubhouse.
Though Sale, who started for the American League at the 2016 All-Star Game earlier this month, has said he would like to stay in Chicago.
The White Sox began Saturday 46-50 and fourth in the American League Central.