White Sox Make Roster Moves
Introduction to the Roster Changes
The Chicago White Sox made several roster moves on Friday, impacting their lineup as they face the Texas Rangers. Among the key decisions was the optioning of struggling first baseman Andrew Vaughn to Triple-A Charlotte.
The team also made other significant moves, including optioning infielder Tim Elko to the minor league club and reinstating outfielders Andrew Benintendi and Mike Tauchman from the 10-day injured list prior to the game against the Texas Rangers.
The Decision Behind Vaughn’s Option
Vaughn’s Performance
The 27-year-old Vaughn, in his fifth season, is batting .189 with five home runs and 19 RBIs in 48 games. The No. 3 overall pick in the 2019 amateur draft, he hit .246 with 19 homers and 70 RBIs in 149 games last year. This significant drop in performance led to the decision to option him to Triple-A.
General Manager’s Perspective
General manager Chris Getz expressed that Vaughn needs to improve his ability to drive the baseball. "He’s a guy that needs to drive the baseball. Can drive the baseball. So, I think he’s actually looking forward to taking a step back, slowing things down. It’s a different competition level, different environment. Really get to work and not make adjustments at a high level like the major leagues is.”
Other Roster Moves
Elko’s Performance and Option
Elko was 5 for 31 with three homers and five RBIs over 10 games after being called up from Charlotte on May 10. His performance led to the decision to option him back to the minor league club.
Benintendi and Tauchman’s Return
Benintendi was batting .224 with five home runs and 12 RBIs entering Friday’s game. He has dealt with a variety of injuries, including a strained left calf that had sidelined him since May 4. He also missed much of spring training because of a broken right hand and spent time on the injured list in April because of a strained left adductor. Tauchman opened the season on the injured list with a strained right hamstring and hurt it again running the bases on the final play in Chicago’s 3-2 loss at Cleveland on April 9. He had appeared in just three games after signing with the White Sox in December. Both players’ return is expected to bolster the team’s lineup.
Conclusion
The Chicago White Sox’s decision to option Andrew Vaughn to Triple-A Charlotte, along with other roster moves, reflects the team’s effort to adjust and strengthen its lineup. Vaughn’s struggle at the plate necessitated a change, and his time in the minor leagues is aimed at helping him regain his form. The return of Benintendi and Tauchman from the injured list adds depth and experience to the team, potentially improving their performance against upcoming opponents.
FAQs
Q: Why was Andrew Vaughn optioned to Triple-A Charlotte?
A: Andrew Vaughn was optioned to Triple-A Charlotte due to his struggles at the plate, batting .189 with five home runs and 19 RBIs in 48 games.
Q: What other roster moves did the White Sox make?
A: The White Sox also optioned infielder Tim Elko to the minor league club and reinstated outfielders Andrew Benintendi and Mike Tauchman from the 10-day injured list.
Q: How do these moves impact the White Sox’s lineup?
A: These moves are intended to strengthen the lineup by giving Vaughn a chance to regain his form and by adding the experience and depth that Benintendi and Tauchman bring, despite their recent injuries.
