The Chicago White Sox announced Tuesday that veteran outfielder Andrew Benintendi has been placed on the bereavement/family medical emergency list. The move came just before the team’s home matchup with the Texas Rangers at Guaranteed Rate Field.
Benintendi, 32, is currently batting .244 with 13 home runs and 65 RBIs in 116 games this season, his fourth year wearing a White Sox uniform. Over his 10‑year major‑league career he has compiled a .265 average, 131 home runs and 621 RBIs in 1,263 games with the Boston Red Sox (2016‑2020), Kansas City Royals (2021‑2022), New York Yankees (2022) and the White Sox (2023‑present). His résumé includes a 2018 World Series championship with Boston, an American League Gold Glove Award as a left fielder in 2021, and an All‑Star selection in 2022.
Rookie Rikuu Nishida called up
In the same transaction, Chicago recalled 25‑year‑old rookie infielder/outfielder Rikuu Nishida from Triple‑A Charlotte. Nishida made his major‑league debut on May 25 and has appeared in 12 games for the White Sox, posting a .241 average (7‑for‑29) with two RBIs.
Before his promotion, Nishida was a standout for the Charlotte Knights. In 86 games at the Triple‑A level he hit .293 with one home run, 27 RBIs and 22 stolen bases in 29 attempts. He earned the call‑up after a strong showing at Double‑A Birmingham, where he was promoted to Charlotte on April 17.
The White Sox roster move reflects the team’s commitment to supporting players during personal hardships while also giving promising young talent an opportunity to contribute at the major‑league level. Benintendi’s placement on the bereavement list opens a roster spot, and the club chose to fill it with a player who has already shown speed, defensive versatility and a solid bat in the minors.
Chicago’s management has emphasized the importance of family and community support throughout the season. By honoring Benintendi’s need to attend to family matters, the organization demonstrates the same values that many fans hold dear – putting family first and supporting one another in times of need.
Fans can expect Nishida to see increased playing time in the outfield and at shortstop as the White Sox continue their push in the American League Central. His speed on the bases and ability to cover ground defensively align with the team’s emphasis on fundamentals and hard work.
While the White Sox await further updates on Benintendi’s situation, the club remains focused on the upcoming series against the Rangers. The team’s next game is scheduled for Tuesday night, and manager Pedro Grifol indicated that the roster will be set once the bereavement list move is finalized.
Chicago baseball supporters are encouraged to follow the team’s official channels for any announcements regarding Benintendi’s return and Nishida’s role moving forward.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
