The Chicago White Sox pitching staff has already taken several hits with the regular season still a month away. Two pitchers need Tommy John surgery while others are dealing with issues keeping them from any Cactus League action. The bad news continued Thursday as the Sox announced that Jimmy Lambert and Joe Barlow will also miss time due to shoulder soreness.
Manager Pedro Grifol expects Lambert to miss 10-14 days, while Barlow will likely require more time away.
Oh, The Injuries
Lambert has experienced ups and downs over the last two seasons for the Pale Hose. He became one of Chicago's reliable late-inning options in his 2022 breakout season. However, right ankle inflammation derailed his 2023 season and likely contributed to his struggles, resulting in two demotions to Triple-A Charlotte.
In the offseason, the White Sox signed Barlow to a minor-league deal with a non-roster invite to camp. He's one of many bounce-back candidates at White Sox camp in Arizona. The 28-year-old had an impressive 2021 rookie season with the Texas Rangers and a respectable 2022 before bottoming out in 2023.
What's On Tap Next?
As a result of a tough season, Lambert is out of minor-league options, while Barlow has two remaining heading into the 2024 campaign. Lambert's injury and lack of options create uncertainty regarding his future with the team.
The 29-year-old will have two weeks of Spring Training games to prove himself if he returns within the expected time frame. Chicago can keep Barlow in Triple-A, but the severity of his injury will determine his long-term fate.
The White Sox can ill afford to lose additional hurlers when so many question marks exist for the pitching staff.
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