Heading into Spring Training, the Chicago White Sox faced significant uncertainty surrounding their outfield, which had already been thinned by the trade of Luis Robert Jr. earlier this spring. With multiple outfield positions seemingly open for competition, hopes were high for a lively contest. However, veteran outfielder Andrew Benintendi was unexpectedly scratched from the lineup against the Rangers on Friday due to right side soreness, complicating the depth issue further and casting doubt on his availability for early-season games.
“White Sox say Andrew Benintendi was scratched with right side soreness”—James Fegan (@JRFegan) February 27, 2026
This marks Benintendi as the second outfielder to sustain a right-side injury for the White Sox within a week, adding to concerns about the group’s health and stability as the regular season approaches.
Injury Concerns Extend Beyond Benintendi with Pereira Also Missing
Benintendi’s setback follows that of outfielder Everson Pereira, who was viewed as a potential frontrunner for a roster spot but has yet to participate in any Cactus League games after being pulled from the spring opener lineup last week. Although manager Will Venable initially described Pereira’s issue as precautionary, the extended absence suggests the injury may be more severe. The simultaneous losses of Pereira and Benintendi place the White Sox in a difficult position during a critical roster-building phase.
Benintendi, who is expected to share playing time between the outfield and designated hitter roles, now faces the possibility of missing a significant portion of spring training, reminiscent of his injury struggles last year. Prior to his injury, Benintendi was off to a promising start, batting 3-for-7 with two doubles and showing solid contact at the plate.
White Sox Brace for Potential Outfield Shortage on Opening Day
With both Benintendi and Pereira potentially starting the season on the Injured List, the White Sox might need to adjust their outfield strategy significantly. Free-agent signing Austin Hays would likely assume the bulk of left field duties, while Luisangel Acuna appears poised to open the year in center field. Brooks Baldwin, who transitioned from infielder to outfielder over the past two seasons, could handle primary reps in right field. Meanwhile, defensive specialist Derek Hill is a candidate for the bench outfield slot.
Roster decisions remain complex as the team weighs options for the final bench position, which could include non-roster invitees like Jarred Kelenic, Dustin Harris, or Lamonte Wade, or carrying both Lenyn Sosa and Curtis Mead, with Sosa possibly seeing more appearances at designated hitter.
Implications of Losing Benintendi’s Bat for the White Sox Lineup
The absence of Benintendi’s offensive contributions would represent a significant challenge for Chicago, which could greatly benefit from his power, including the potential for 20 home runs this season. The team hopes both injured outfielders can recover and return to Cactus League play before the regular season begins to maintain competition for roster spots.
Should injuries linger, the White Sox may need to explore additional options through trades or the waiver wire to reinforce their outfield depth.
Looking Ahead: The White Sox’s Quest for a Strong Start in 2026
The injury setbacks to Benintendi and Pereira cast an uneasy shadow over the White Sox’s spring preparations, but the team remains focused on a healthy and competitive roster entering the 2026 season. Maintaining depth and health in the outfield is critical as Chicago aims to build on last year’s progress and take another significant step forward.
White Sox say Andrew Benintendi was scratched with right side soreness
— James Fegan (@JRFegan) February 27, 2026
