The Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins are making progress in their efforts to get key players back in action as Yoan Moncada and Alex Kirilloff inch closer to their returns from injuries.

Moncada, the White Sox third baseman, has been sidelined with a left adductor strain since playing in just 11 games this season. However, manager Pedro Grifol has announced that Moncada is set to return to action in the Arizona Complex League next week. Initially given a recovery timeline of 3-to-6 months, Moncada's rehab plan remains somewhat fluid. Nonetheless, if all goes well, he could be back with the team close to the end of July, putting his season back on track.

The injury setback comes at a crucial time for Moncada, as he is in the final guaranteed year of his five-year, $70 million contract. With the White Sox unlikely to exercise their $25 million club option on him for 2025, this could mark his last series of games in a White Sox uniform.

On the other hand, Alex Kirilloff of the Minnesota Twins has been on the 10-day injured list since June 13 due to a back strain. Kirilloff's discomfort stems from a nerve issue, and he recently received a cortisone shot to help ease the pain. For now, he is focusing on core-strengthening exercises in the hopes of soon being able to start taking swings.

Injuries have been a significant hurdle for Kirilloff throughout his career. Since his MLB debut in 2021, he has been limited to just 249 games due to multiple surgeries, including shoulder and wrist surgeries, along with his current back problem. The Twins will be eagerly awaiting his return to bolster their lineup.

Additionally, the Twins' bullpen has also been affected by injuries. Relievers Brock Stewart and Justin Topa have both progressed in their recovery processes. Stewart, who has been dealing with tendinitis in his right shoulder, recently threw a live batting practice session and is not far away from starting a minor league rehab assignment.

On the other hand, Topa has yet to pitch this season due to left patellar tendinitis, and was later diagnosed with a partial tear in his patellar tendon. He has recently resumed his throwing progression but still has some way to go before he is fully ready for his 2024 debut.

As the season progresses, the White Sox and Twins will be looking forward to the returns of Moncada, Kirilloff, Stewart, and Topa. These players' recoveries will undoubtedly provide a major boost to their respective teams as they aim to compete in their respective divisions.