White Sox Place Eloy Jimenez on Injured List, Call Up Robbie Grossman

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ICARO Media Group
News
05/04/2024 22h33

The Chicago White Sox made a series of roster moves on Friday, with the announcement that outfielder Eloy Jimenez has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to an adductor strain. The move is retroactive to April 2, indicating that Jimenez's absence will continue for the foreseeable future.

To fill the void left by Jimenez, the White Sox have selected the contract of veteran outfielder Robbie Grossman. The 34-year-old switch-hitter, who spent the 2023 season with the World Series champion Texas Rangers, brings a consistent batting record to the team. Grossman has been an average or better hitter in six of the past eight seasons, maintaining a combined batting line of .245/.350/.387 over 3552 plate appearances.

Notably, Grossman has shown particular prowess against left-handed pitching, boasting a career slash line of .282/.381/.426 and a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 126. Though he has played some center field in his career, the majority of his defensive experience has been in left field. However, defensive metrics indicate that his performance in the outfield has fallen below average.

Grossman's arrival provides the White Sox with a veteran bat who can step in for Jimenez as the designated hitter. He may also provide occasional relief for left-handed-hitting corner outfielders Andrew Benintendi and Dominic Fletcher when facing left-handed starting pitchers.

In a corresponding move to make room for Grossman on the roster, right-hander Alex Speas has been designated for assignment. Speas, who joined the White Sox via waiver claim last October, is known for his exceptional fastball that clocks in at 99-100 mph. However, his command has been a struggle, resulting in high walk rates during his time in the minor leagues. The 26-year-old pitched two innings for the Rangers last season and split the majority of the season between Double-A and Triple-A.

Speas has been inconsistent during his time in Triple-A Charlotte this season, allowing four runs in two innings while walking two of the 11 batters he's faced. The White Sox now have a week to trade Speas, attempt to pass him through outright waivers, or release him.

As for Jimenez, his placement on the injured list comes after he exited Sunday's game due to adductor muscle soreness. The 27-year-old slugger has had a history of injuries throughout his career, including ankle, elbow/forearm, and hamstring injuries. In 2019, Jimenez showcased his power potential by hitting 31 home runs as a rookie. However, he has struggled to stay healthy and has only played a maximum of 122 games in a season.

Jimenez's absence will be keenly felt by the White Sox, as he is a formidable presence in their lineup. In 2021, he slashed an impressive .295/.358/.500 with 16 home runs in just 84 games. The hope is that he can fully recover from his current adductor strain and resume his role as a dangerous hitter for the team.

The White Sox will now rely on Grossman's veteran presence to help fill the void left by Jimenez's absence, providing valuable depth and experience to the roster.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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