Michael Soroka: Contract | Injury | What Happened To
Michael Soroka, once a promising young pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, captured national attention with his exceptional rookie season. However, his journey since then has been filled with both triumph and heartbreak. From devastating injuries to new contracts, Soroka’s career reflects resilience, talent, and an unshakable will to return to the mound.
In this article, we’ll explore Michael Soroka’s contract situation, a detailed breakdown of his injury timeline, and answer the frequently searched question: “What happened to Michael Soroka?”
Who is Michael Soroka?
Michael Soroka, born on August 4, 1997, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is a professional baseball pitcher. He made his MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2018 and quickly became one of the most promising pitchers in the National League. Known for his control, command, and poise on the mound, Soroka became an All-Star in 2019, his breakout year.
At just 21 years old during the 2019 season, he finished with a 13–4 record and a 2.68 ERA, earning second place in the NL Rookie of the Year voting and sixth in the Cy Young Award race.
Michael Soroka’s MLB Contract: What’s His Current Deal?
As of 2025, Michael Soroka is part of the Chicago White Sox organization, having signed with them after being non-tendered by the Braves following the 2023 season.
Atlanta Braves Contract Years
- Drafted: First round (28th overall) by the Atlanta Braves in the 2015 MLB Draft.
- MLB Debut: May 1, 2018
- Initial Salary: After his debut, Soroka remained under team control and arbitration-eligible for several years.
- 2020–2023 Earnings: He earned progressively more through arbitration, despite spending most of the time injured.
Non-Tendered and New Chapter with the White Sox
In November 2023, the Braves non-tendered Soroka, making him a free agent. This move shocked many fans but was expected due to his repeated injury setbacks and increasing arbitration costs.
- Signed by the White Sox: In December 2023, Soroka signed a 1-year, $3 million deal with the Chicago White Sox.
- Incentives: The contract includes performance bonuses based on innings pitched and appearances.
Michael Soroka Injury History: A Timeline of Setbacks
Michael Soroka’s career has been heavily impacted by injuries, particularly to his right Achilles tendon. Despite his immense talent, these recurring injuries stalled what could have been a perennial All-Star career.
May 2018: Shoulder Inflammation
Just after his MLB debut, Soroka suffered right shoulder inflammation and was placed on the injured list. He eventually missed the rest of the 2018 season to focus on rehab and recovery.
August 3, 2020: First Achilles Tear
During a game against the New York Mets in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, Soroka tore his right Achilles tendon while attempting to cover first base. The injury abruptly ended his season and began a long road to recovery.
June 2021: Re-Tear of the Achilles
In a devastating setback, Soroka re-tore his Achilles tendon while simply walking to the clubhouse at the Braves’ facility in June 2021. He required another surgery and missed the entire 2021 MLB season.
2022–2023: Minor League Rehab and Setbacks
Although he made appearances at the minor league level in 2022, Soroka continued to face challenges in returning to full strength. The Braves took a cautious approach, hoping to preserve his long-term health.
He finally returned to the majors in 2023, but inconsistencies and residual issues led to limited effectiveness. His season ended prematurely again, and the Braves opted not to retain him.
What Happened to Michael Soroka?
If you’ve found yourself searching “What happened to Michael Soroka?”, you’re not alone. Many MLB fans have been left wondering what led to the derailment of such a promising career.
1. Injury Woes
Soroka’s Achilles injuries were rare and debilitating. Pitchers rarely suffer Achilles tears, and for Soroka to suffer two in a span of one year is almost unheard of in baseball. The injuries not only caused long absences but also disrupted his rhythm and mechanics.
2. Physical and Mental Recovery
Recovering from back-to-back major surgeries took a toll. Soroka himself has been candid about the mental strain of long-term rehab. The uncertainty of whether he’d ever pitch again at the highest level loomed over his return.
3. Team Decision: Braves’ Non-Tender
Following years of inconsistency and continued injury risks, the Braves opted to non-tender Soroka in 2023, despite their deep investment in his development. The move allowed him to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Michael Soroka with the Chicago White Sox (2024–2025)
Soroka’s signing with the White Sox marked a new beginning. The team hoped that a change in scenery and lighter pressure would help the Canadian right-hander regain his form.
2024 Season Performance
In 2024, Soroka made spot starts and bullpen appearances. His velocity wasn’t quite what it was pre-injury, but his command and experience kept him valuable as a depth arm. He posted a 4.35 ERA across 60 innings, showing flashes of the talent that once made him a rising star.
2025 Outlook
As of mid-2025, Soroka remains a roster bubble player. He’s expected to compete for a back-end rotation spot or serve as a swingman out of the bullpen. While the velocity might never fully return, Soroka’s baseball IQ, poise, and adaptability still give him a shot at meaningful MLB innings. Michael Soroka Contract Injury.
Michael Soroka Career Stats (as of July 2025)
| Season | Team | W-L | ERA | IP | SO | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Atlanta Braves | 2–1 | 3.51 | 25.2 | 21 | 1.44 |
| 2019 | Atlanta Braves | 13–4 | 2.68 | 174.2 | 142 | 1.11 |
| 2020 | Atlanta Braves | 0–1 | 3.95 | 13.2 | 8 | 1.24 |
| 2023 | Atlanta Braves | 2–2 | 6.40 | 32.1 | 29 | 1.60 |
| 2024 | Chicago White Sox | 3–4 | 4.35 | 60.0 | 52 | 1.38 |
| Total | — | 20–12 | 3.68 | 306.3 | 252 | 1.28 |
Personal Life and Off-the-Field Notes
- Soroka is known for his calm demeanor and cerebral approach to the game.
- He’s proud of his Canadian heritage and has represented Canada in international baseball events.
- Off the field, Soroka enjoys reading and has expressed interest in sports psychology and coaching.
Will Michael Soroka Return to Form?
That’s the golden question. While his days of being a front-line starter might be in the past, many believe Soroka still has the potential to be a reliable No. 4 or 5 starter or even a long-relief option.
His command and baseball IQ remain high, and with proper conditioning, he can adapt and thrive in a different role. Many pitchers have extended their careers by embracing bullpen roles or adjusting their pitching styles — Soroka could follow that path. Michael Soroka Contract Injury.
FAQs
What is Michael Soroka’s current team?
As of 2025, Michael Soroka is with the Chicago White Sox.
How many times did Soroka tear his Achilles?
Twice. Once in August 2020, and again in June 2021.
Is Soroka still playing in MLB?
Yes. He’s active in the 2025 MLB season, mainly used in depth roles for the White Sox.
Was Soroka an All-Star?
Yes, he was selected to the MLB All-Star Game in 2019.
Why did the Braves let Soroka go?
Due to repeated injuries and rising arbitration costs, the Braves non-tendered Soroka in 2023, making him a free agent.
Conclusion
Michael Soroka’s career is a powerful story of promise, adversity, and perseverance. While injuries have kept him from reaching the full potential he once showed in 2019, he remains a figure of hope and determination in Major League Baseball.
Whether he reclaims his former glory or finds a new niche in the league, Soroka’s journey continues to inspire. Baseball fans and analysts alike continue to watch his progress — because if anyone deserves a triumphant comeback, it’s Michael Soroka.
