White Sox Call Up 2 Minor Leaguers as Rosters Expand

Chris Getz and Jerry Reinsdorf spoke to the media Thursday and gave reporters a State of the Union address behind closed doors. Afterward, Reinsdorf knighted Getz as the Chicago White Sox senior vice president and general manager in a busy afternoon for the chairman. Getz made his first official move as the top man in the organization on Friday.

The new headman promoted pitcher Luis Patiño and infielder Jose Rodriguez to the MLB roster. Rodrigues had a short stint with the White Sox earlier this year and got his only game action as a pinch runner. Getz's predecessor acquired Patiño from the Tampa Bay Rays for cash considerations at the trade deadline.

Two Newbies

MLB allows teams to expand rosters from 26 to 28 for the season's final stretch. Both players offer relief to weary regulars and get playing time in the big leagues to showcase their talents before Spring Training. Change is afoot at 35th and Shields, and many players will get opportunities to compete for next year's roster.

Patño is an intriguing player, having been rated a top 100 prospect by three different publications from 2019-2021. He's ranked as high as 15th in all of baseball pre-2020 by Baseball Prospectus. However, due to various injuries, Patino saw limited action in '21 and '22, making only 18 starts.

He faltered thus far between Triple-A affiliates for the Rays and the Pale Hose, pitching to a 6.49 ERA in 32 appearances (11 starts).

Jose "Popeye" Rodriguez inked a $50,000 contract with the South Siders during the 2018 international signing period. Since joining the organization, the Dominican infielder performed well at every White Sox minor-league affiliate. In 2023, his second season in Double-A Birmingham, he's slashing .264/.297/.450 with 18 homers and 54 RBIs in 87 games.

What's On Tap Next?

Rodriguez and Lenyn Sosa should get run at second base and shortstop for the White Sox down the stretch. Veteran Elvis Andrus is likely to depart the team after this year, and Tim Anderson's future is in question.

Chicago's pitching staff is undergoing a big overhaul after the previous front office unloaded six players at the trade deadline, five of which were on expiring contracts. Patiño will get opportunities in relief and as a starter.