Any potential trade involving Chicago White Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi may be delayed for the foreseeable future after the team announced on Thursday that Benintendi suffered a non-displaced fracture in his right hand. The injury occurred when Cleveland Guardians pitcher Logan Allen hit Benintendi with a pitch in the first inning, forcing him to exit the game immediately.
The White Sox confirmed that Benintendi, who turns 31 in July, will not need surgery. However, he is almost certain to miss Opening Day and could remain sidelined through April. For a White Sox team coming off an MLB-record 121 losses last season, Benintendi’s absence isn’t a significant blow. Over his first two seasons with Chicago, he hit .246 with 25 home runs, 109 RBI, and a lackluster .684 OPS. Since signing a five-year, $75 million contract after the 2022 season, Benintendi has posted a -0.6 bWAR across 286 games.
Despite his struggles, Benintendi could still attract trade interest this summer. The 2022 All-Star is a proven left-handed bat and tied a career-high with 20 home runs last season.
Benintendi’s injury could open the door for former Texas Rangers All-Star Joey Gallo, who is in White Sox camp on a minor-league deal, to secure a roster spot. Alternatively, the team might turn to former New York Yankees fan favorite Mike Tauchman as a temporary starter until Benintendi returns.
The White Sox will begin their regular season on March 27 against Mike Trout and the Los Angeles Angels.
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