White Sox Recall Fraser Ellard, Option Tyler Gilbert as Bullpen Reshuffle Continues

Gilbert Out After Mixed Opener Stint

Gilbert, who began the year on the injured list, had been used as an opener in three of four consecutive appearances, some more successful than others. The strategy itself raised some eyebrows, and with Shane Smith taking the ball as the traditional starter tonight, it appears the "opener" experiment might be on pause for now.

Ellard Returns to the Pen

Ellard returns after dealing with a strained right hamstring that landed him on the injured list on April 11. Chicago made Ellard a part of the Opening Day roster, and while his 2025 numbers have been down—five innings pitched, four walks, and a 5.40 ERA—the injury may have contributed to his shaky command. The White Sox hope a healthy Ellard looks more like he did in 2024, when he struck out 26 in 24 innings while pitching to a 3.75 ERA.

What's On Tap Next?

He now re-joins the South Side's left-handed bullpen contingent, which includes Brandon Eisert, Jared Shuster, and Cam Booser. Of the group, Ellard and Booser will pitch in higher-leverage spots, especially in the later innings. Expect to see Ellard deployed in the seventh or eighth, provided the game hasn't already gotten away.

With the bullpen's performance bouncing between "lights out" and "light yourself on fire," the White Sox could use a consistent version of Ellard now more than ever.