Kyle Teel was initially expected to be out for six to 12 weeks after spraining his left ankle on July 20 during a game against Texas. “Immediately when it happened, it felt terrible,” Teel explained on Friday at Rate Field. “When the doctors said 12 weeks, I prayed. I’m blessed to come back sooner.” Teel returned to the Chicago White Sox lineup for a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins.
Teel has played in only 19 games due to various injuries, including the recent ankle sprain. “His story this year has been tough,” said manager Will Venable. “It’s exciting to have him back behind the plate. His energy in the clubhouse and on the field really matters.”
Teel started the season on the injured list due to a hamstring strain from the World Baseball Classic with Italy. In May, he sprained his right knee during a rehab assignment with Triple-A Charlotte and didn’t play a regular-season game until June 22. He played nearly a month before the ankle injury occurred, attempting a swipe tag during a game against the Rangers.
Teel’s current season stats are .190/.271/.317 with two doubles, two home runs, 14 RBIs, and nine runs scored. “Feedback from Kyle and the medical staff is positive,” said general manager Chris Getz. “His lower-half issues seem behind him. We need him because he’s a big part of this team. We’re excited to see his impact.”
During his rehab with Charlotte starting Aug. 25, Teel hit .318 with one home run and three RBIs in six games. “I felt close to returning, and it got better each week,” Teel noted. “I can catch 100% now and feel ready every day.”
In a roster move, the Sox optioned catcher Drew Romo to Charlotte. Romo’s current season line is .141/.239/.288 with five doubles, seven home runs, 16 RBIs, and 17 runs in 60 games. The Sox options behind the plate are now Teel and Jake Rogers. “Drew’s done a great job,” affirmed Getz. “His value to the pitching staff is essential. He’ll stay with the club on the taxi squad and be ready for opportunities.”
Venable mentioned the approach for Teel and Rogers: “For a series, if one lefty starts, Jake (right-handed) will likely start, and Kyle (left-handed) will face righties. There aren’t many lefties soon, mostly righties. We’ll consider their matchups carefully.”
Teel is eager to contribute as the Sox push for the playoffs, holding a 2½-game lead over the Cleveland Guardians in the American League Central. “Returning to help the team is what I envisioned,” Teel said. “This is the best time to play, this and the playoffs. It’s about taking one game at a time. The only game that matters is the game today.”
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