As the Chicago White Sox move closer to Opening Day, spring training has offered both optimism and uncertainty.
Several players have impressed early in camp, helping shape the picture of what the 26-man roster could look like. But injuries have also entered the equation, creating new questions for the coaching staff as roster decisions approach.
In recent days, the team has provided updates on four players currently dealing with health issues: Everson Pereira, David Sandlin, Drew Thorpe, and Andrew Benintendi.
Everson Pereira still working back
Everson Pereira’s status has been one of the bigger mysteries in White Sox camp.
The outfielder was removed from the lineup during Chicago’s Cactus League opener in February. At the time, manager Will Venable described the move as precautionary and labeled Pereira “day-to-day.”
However, two weeks passed without Pereira appearing in another spring lineup, leaving his situation unclear.
Venable finally offered an update this week, suggesting the team hopes to see Pereira return soon if his recovery continues to progress.
“We are looking next week to get him out there if he continues to progress,” Venable told reporters before Thursday’s game against Cleveland.
The timing is significant for Pereira.
He is competing for one of the available outfield spots on the White Sox roster, and the injury has interrupted his opportunity to build momentum. Earlier in camp, Venable mentioned Pereira as one of the players who had impressed the staff.
If he can return next week, Pereira should still have enough time to collect several at-bats before the team finalizes its roster decisions.
David Sandlin easing into camp
Right-hander David Sandlin has also yet to appear in a Cactus League game this spring, but his absence appears to be part of a cautious plan.
According to Venable, Sandlin arrived in camp dealing with a minor back issue that slowed the early stages of his throwing program.
Because of that, the team opted for a gradual ramp-up rather than rushing him into game action.
Sandlin has been throwing bullpen sessions and live batting practice as he continues building toward full strength.
The 23-year-old pitcher, acquired from the Boston Red Sox in the Jordan Hicks trade, is expected to begin the season in the Triple-A Charlotte rotation. However, the organization views him as a potential contributor to the major league staff at some point this year.
With just a few weeks remaining before the season begins, Sandlin may take slightly longer to reach full readiness, but the early back issue appears to be behind him.
Drew Thorpe reaches key rehab milestone
The recovery process for right-hander Drew Thorpe has taken an encouraging step forward.
Thorpe is rehabbing from Tommy John surgery performed during the 2025 season. Earlier this spring, there was some concern after he experienced elbow discomfort and returned to visit Dr. Keith Meister, the surgeon who performed the operation.
Fortunately, imaging showed no structural issues.
After a short period of rest, Thorpe resumed his rehabilitation and recently completed a major milestone — his first bullpen session off a mound since the surgery.
The 20-pitch session reportedly went well, and Thorpe was scheduled to follow it up with a slightly longer bullpen the next day.
While he currently trails fellow rehabbing pitchers Ky Bush and Mason Adams in the timeline, Thorpe still appears on track to return to the major leagues at some point during the 2026 season.
His eventual comeback could provide a meaningful boost to Chicago’s developing rotation.
Benintendi returns after minor scare
Veteran outfielder Andrew Benintendi also dealt with a brief injury concern during camp.
Benintendi was scratched from the lineup last week due to soreness in his side, raising questions given how injuries disrupted his spring training in 2025.
This time, however, the issue appears minor.
Benintendi reported feeling better following Wednesday’s scheduled off day and returned to the lineup Thursday night in left field.
After losing significant spring preparation time last year due to injury, Benintendi had hoped for a smoother buildup this spring.
His quick return suggests the setback was only temporary.
Final weeks of camp approaching
With less than three weeks remaining before the 2026 regular season begins, the White Sox are entering the most important stretch of spring training.
Players are trying to secure roster spots, prospects are pushing for opportunities, and the coaching staff is evaluating every performance.
Health will remain a critical factor as those decisions take shape.
For now, Chicago appears optimistic about the progress of Pereira, Sandlin, Thorpe, and Benintendi — but the coming weeks will ultimately determine how each of them fits into the team’s plans for Opening Day.
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