The White Sox announced to reporters, including James Fegan of Sox Machine, that third baseman Yoan Moncada will return to the lineup for tomorrow’s game. Moncada, who has been sidelined with a left adductor strain since April 9, was having a solid start to the 2024 season before his injury, hitting .282 with a 122 wRC+ in 11 games.
Throughout his career, Moncada has faced numerous injuries and, aside from a standout 2019 season, has struggled to meet the expectations set for him as a top prospect. However, if he can perform as a league-average hitter and be a reliable defender at third base, his return would be a significant boost for the White Sox over the season’s final two weeks.
Miguel Vargas, who has been filling in at third base since the trade deadline, has struggled with a .112 average and a .395 OPS, alongside four errors in 27 games and negative defensive metrics. While the White Sox are not ready to give up on Vargas, Moncada’s return is expected to greatly improve the team’s performance.
Although the White Sox aren’t contending this year, they are aiming to avoid setting a new modern record for losses in a season. Meanwhile, Moncada will be looking to make a strong impression as he is likely to enter free agency after this season, with the White Sox expected to decline his $25 million club option for 2025 in favor of a $5 million buyout.
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