CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago White Sox have welcomed back catcher Kyle Teel, who has been activated from the 10-day injured list after a season marred by injuries. His return comes as the White Sox continue to vie for a strong position in the American League Central.
Teel's activation was announced on Friday, coinciding with the decision to option fellow catcher Drew Romo to Triple-A Charlotte. This move reflects the team's efforts to bolster their roster as they approach the final stretch of the season.
A first-round selection in the 2023 amateur draft, Teel was acquired by the White Sox in a trade that sent Garrett Crochet to the Boston Red Sox in December 2024. Last season, Teel made a notable impact, finishing with a .273 batting average, eight home runs, and 35 RBIs over 78 games in his inaugural year with Chicago.
However, this season has been challenging for the young catcher. Teel has participated in only 19 games, struggling with a .190 batting average, two home runs, and 14 RBIs. His season has been significantly affected by injuries, starting with a right hamstring strain he sustained while representing Italy in the World Baseball Classic.
Following the hamstring injury, Teel faced further setbacks, including a right knee injury he suffered during a rehab assignment with Charlotte. He made his season debut for the White Sox on June 22, but his return was short-lived. Less than a month later, during a game against the Texas Rangers, Teel injured his left ankle while attempting to tag a runner at home plate, resulting in a diagnosis of a high ankle sprain.
In contrast, Drew Romo, who was claimed off waivers from the New York Mets on January 8, has struggled this season. He has recorded a .141 batting average, with seven home runs and 16 RBIs in 60 games. Prior to this season, Romo had no home runs and six RBIs in 19 career games, all with the Colorado Rockies.
As the White Sox look to solidify their position in the playoff race, Teel's return could provide a much-needed boost to their lineup. With the team's performance fluctuating, having a player of Teel's potential back in the fold could be crucial as they aim for postseason success.
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