The Chicago White Sox received unfortunate injury news on Wednesday, as catcher Kyle Teel is expected to miss the start of the 2026 MLB season due to a grade-2 hamstring strain.
According to reports, Teel will be sidelined for four to six weeks, which means he will not be available when the White Sox open their season on March 26 against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Injury occurred during WBC breakout performance
Teel suffered the injury while playing for Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic during a standout performance against Team USA.
The young catcher was having an excellent night before the injury occurred. He:
- Hit a home run to left field to give Italy its first run
- Drew a walk and later scored
- Followed with a line drive down the first base line
After hitting the ball, Teel sprinted around first base but appeared to hobble slightly while rounding the bag. He still reached second base but was clearly in discomfort after sliding into the bag.
Team trainers helped escort him off the field, ending what had been a key performance in Italy’s 9–6 victory.
White Sox expected setback
Although the White Sox hoped the injury would be minor, the diagnosis confirmed their fears.
General manager Chris Getz acknowledged the setback but expressed confidence in the team’s depth at catcher.
“We do have some depth there that we feel good about,” Getz said.
“Unfortunately, these types of instances happen whether it be in spring training or throughout the year. So depth is vital to be able to stay competitive.”
Depending on the timeline, Teel could miss anywhere from roughly 12 to 24 games to start the season.
Promising young catcher
Teel was expected to be one of the White Sox’s key young contributors in 2026 after showing promise during his rookie campaign in 2025.
He spent the offseason preparing for a bigger role, reportedly adding about 20 pounds of muscle in an effort to increase the power in his swing.
While the injury delays that progress, the White Sox believe he will still have plenty of time to make an impact once he returns.
White Sox catching depth will step up
Fortunately for Chicago, catcher is one position where the organization has strong depth.
Edgar Quero had an impressive rookie season of his own in 2025 and is known for his contact-oriented approach and ability to reach base. He has also looked strong in spring training, giving the team confidence that he can handle a larger role early in the season.
Meanwhile, Korey Lee is now in a better position to secure a spot on the Opening Day roster after performing well this spring, including hitting a home run earlier this week.
Early test for White Sox roster
The White Sox have generated significant excitement this offseason after making several roster improvements and building a young core expected to take a step forward in 2026.
Teel was seen as one of those rising players.
While missing him for the first month of the season is certainly not ideal, Chicago believes its depth behind the plate will allow the team to stay competitive until he returns.
If all goes according to schedule, Teel could rejoin the lineup sometime in late April or early May.
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