URGENT UPDATE: The Chicago White Sox have just announced that All-Star right-hander Shane Smith has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a sprained left ankle. The move is retroactive to July 12, 2023, leaving fans and teammates anxious about the rookie’s recovery timeline.
Smith, who made history as the franchise’s first rookie pitcher selected for the All-Star team, last took the mound during the All-Star Game on Tuesday, where he faced two batters, hitting Eugenio Suarez before retiring James Wood to end the inning. The details surrounding when Smith sustained his injury remain unclear, leaving questions about his availability for the remainder of the season.
Currently, Smith boasts a record of 3-7 with a 4.26 ERA and a total of 81 strikeouts in 18 starts. His performance had been a bright spot for the White Sox, who are navigating a challenging season.
In response to Smith’s injury, Chicago has made several roster moves. They recalled Wikelman Gonzalez from Triple-A Charlotte, where he had an impressive record of 6-0 with a 4.44 ERA over 16 relief appearances. Gonzalez previously recorded a 4.50 ERA in two outings with the White Sox earlier this season.
Additionally, the team activated outfielder Brooks Baldwin from the 10-day IL after he recovered from a lower back strain sustained earlier this month. Baldwin has appeared in 54 games this season, batting .227 with four home runs and 20 RBIs. Meanwhile, outfielder Will Robertson has been optioned back to Charlotte after struggling to find his footing with the White Sox, posting an 0-for-6 record with four strikeouts in his brief stint.
With the White Sox facing crucial games ahead, fans eagerly await updates on Smith’s condition and potential return. The team will be looking to Gonzalez to fill the void left by their All-Star as they aim to regain momentum in the season.
Stay tuned as more information develops on this story and what it means for the White Sox’s playoff aspirations.
