Chicago White Sox injury woes continue, as one more hits the IL

The White Sox made it official before tonight’s game with the Royals that they have placed outfielder Andrew Benintendi on the injured list, which is retroactive to May 5. Benintendi left Sunday’s game against the Houston Astros after suffering left calf tightness.

In a corresponding move to fill his spot on the roster, the White Sox have selected the contract of utility man Nick Maton.

“Prior to tonight’s game at Kansas City, the Chicago White Sox placed outfielder Andrew Benintendi on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to May 5) with a left calf strain and selected the contract of infielder Nick Maton from Class AAA Charlotte.”

Maton (28) had been designated for assignment a little over a week ago to make room for infielder Gage Workman, who had been claimed off waivers. Maton wasn’t performing great in his 23 games with the White Sox, hitting .173/.295/.327 for an OPS and OPS+ of .622 and 80.

Losing Benintendi will be a blow for the White Sox, but it will allow players like Brooks Baldwin to see more playing time. Benintendi had cooled off from his hot start to the year and has seen his batting average drop down into the .220s for the year (.224). Benintendi’s overall numbers are eerily similar to his overall numbers from last season, which can be a case for concern.

Next man up for the White Sox

Benintendi’s absence will allow the White Sox to play more of their young guys and get them more at-bats. Baldwin should see the most playing time out in leftfield with Michael A. Taylor being the next guy up in the rotation.

Maton shouldn’t be here too long, but that depends on how Benintendi’s calf feels come the 15th. For now, Maton will provide a nice fill-in until Benintendi returns.