Josh Rojas Returns to White Sox Roster After Injury

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago White Sox made six roster moves on Sunday ahead of their series finale against the Houston Astros. Notably, infielder Josh Rojas was activated for the first time this season after recovering from a toe injury.

Rojas, who signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the White Sox during the offseason, fractured his right big toe near the end of spring training. He returned from the 10-day injured list following a brief rehabilitation stint with Triple-A Charlotte, where he went 1-for-12 in three games.

“I’m excited, it’s my Opening Day,” Rojas said after being reinstated. “I think it’s going to be one of those things that lingers around for a little bit, but it’s good enough to go. I can do everything at full speed, so that’s what I was waiting for.”

Rojas suffered the injury on March 15. Despite attempting to play through the pain, he acknowledged that he could only perform at about 25% to 30% of his usual level. “A lot of my game relies on being athletic,” he added. “If I was just a power-hitting third baseman, it might be a different story, but I need to run the bases and make plays.”

The 30-year-old veteran has played in 570 major league games over six seasons, achieving a career slash line of .247/.324/.362, with 34 home runs and 59 stolen bases. He is expected to contribute across the infield for the White Sox.

As part of their roster changes, the White Sox also designated veteran first baseman Bobby Dalbec for assignment. Dalbec, who signed with Chicago as a free agent in January, had a batting average of .222 with four hits and three walks in seven games this season.

Additionally, the team recalled left-handed pitcher Zach Gilbert and selected right-hander Caleb Freeman from Charlotte. Freeman, who has been with the White Sox’s minor league system since 2019, expressed gratitude for his opportunity, stating, “I’m just grateful to be here and ready to go.”

The White Sox also placed left-handed reliever Sam Ellard on the 15-day injured list due to a lat strain, marking the latest challenge for a team dealing with injuries. Ellard had just returned from the injured list at the end of April, posting an 0-2 record with a 6.75 ERA over seven games.