Andrew Benintendi’s Spring Training Setback: A Blow to the White Sox
Spring training is a time of hope and anticipation for baseball fans, as teams gear up for the upcoming season. However, for the Chicago White Sox, this year’s preparations have hit an unexpected snag. Their left fielder, Andrew Benintendi, is set to miss four to six weeks due to a broken hand. This unfortunate injury occurred during a spring training game on Thursday, leaving fans and the team alike to ponder the impact of his absence.
In the first inning of the game against the Cleveland Guardians, Benintendi was struck on the right hand by an 87 mph fastball thrown by Cleveland right-hander Logan Allen. The White Sox quickly announced that Benintendi had suffered a non-displaced fracture, which, fortunately, will not require surgery. However, the recovery timeline means that Benintendi is likely to start the season on the injured list, a significant blow for the team as they prepare to open at home on March 27 against the Los Angeles Angels.
Benintendi’s journey to the White Sox has been an eventful one. He signed a $75 million, five-year contract with the team prior to the 2023 season, bringing with him a wealth of experience and accolades. After debuting with the Boston Red Sox in 2016, he played a crucial role in their 2018 World Series victory. His career then took him to Kansas City in 2021, where he won a Gold Glove and earned his first All-Star selection in 2022. That same year, he was traded to the New York Yankees for the stretch run, showcasing his versatility and value as a player.
Despite these achievements, Benintendi’s performance with the White Sox has been a mixed bag. In 2024, he matched his career high with 20 home runs, yet his batting average dipped to .229, marking his worst full-season average outside of the pandemic-shortened 2020 schedule. Over two seasons with Chicago, he has appeared in 286 games, a testament to his durability and importance to the team.
As the White Sox face the prospect of starting the season without Benintendi, the team and its fans are left to consider the implications. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, both in the outfield and at the plate. The team will need to rely on its depth and resilience to navigate the early part of the season without one of its key players.
For fans, this news is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports. Injuries are an unfortunate reality, and they can alter the course of a season in an instant. However, they also provide opportunities for other players to step up and make their mark. The White Sox will be looking to their roster to fill the void left by Benintendi and maintain their competitive edge as they aim for a successful season.
- Andrew Benintendi’s injury: Broken hand, out 4-6 weeks
- Hit by an 87 mph fastball from Logan Allen
- Non-displaced fracture, no surgery required
- Likely to start the season on the injured list
- White Sox open at home on March 27 against the Angels
As the countdown to Opening Day continues, the White Sox will be working hard to adjust their plans and ensure they are ready to compete. While Benintendi’s injury is a setback, it also serves as a rallying point for the team to come together and demonstrate their resilience. Baseball is a long season, and the White Sox will be hoping that Benintendi’s return will coincide with a strong push towards their goals.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
