What was already one of the White Sox’ thinnest position groups just got thinner.
Sep 2, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago White Sox left fielder Andrew Benintendi (23) runs off the field after the Chicago White Sox defeat the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images | Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
Andrew Benintendi, who was scheduled to start Friday against the Rangers, was scratched with what the team labeled “right side soreness.” On its own, that might not trigger alarms in late February.
But context makes it troubling.
Benintendi becomes the second Chicago outfielder in a week to deal with a right-side issue. Everson Pereira — once viewed as a strong candidate to claim a roster spot — has yet to appear in a Cactus League game after being scratched from the spring opener with similar discomfort.
Initially described as precautionary, Pereira’s continued absence suggests something more lingering.
Now, the White Sox must brace for the possibility that both players could miss significant time.
For Benintendi, the timing stings. After an injury-interrupted 2025, he entered camp looking sharp — 3-for-7 with two doubles and several hard-hit balls. He was expected to split time between left field and designated hitter, providing needed power in a lineup that still lacks proven 20-home-run threats.
If this turns out to be an oblique strain, it could wipe out most of his spring.
That would put Chicago in a difficult position.
Luis Robert Jr. is gone following a trade. The outfield depth chart was already unsettled. Now it may be stretched to the limit.
Austin Hays would likely assume primary left-field duties. Luisangel Acuña could open in center field. Brooks Baldwin, despite coming up as an infielder, has seen increasing time in the outfield and may handle right field early on.
Derek Hill could fill a bench role.
Beyond that, the White Sox face choices. Non-roster invitees like Jarred Kelenic, Dustin Harris, or LaMonte Wade could force the issue. Alternatively, Chicago could lean into infield-heavy bench options such as Lenyn Sosa and Curtis Mead, rotating the DH spot creatively.
None of those solutions fully replace Benintendi’s steady bat.
And if Pereira’s timeline extends, the club could be heading into Opening Day with a patchwork alignment in all three outfield spots.
The White Sox were already walking a fine line in this area. Injuries now threaten to tip the balance.
There’s still time for positive updates. Spring ailments can fade quickly.
But if Benintendi and Pereira aren’t back in games soon, Chicago may need to scan the waiver wire — or even explore a late trade — to stabilize what is rapidly becoming the roster’s most fragile unit.
For a team hoping to take a meaningful step forward in 2026, health in the outfield suddenly feels critical.
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