The Chicago White Sox announced multiple roster changes Sunday, highlighted by the return of infielder Josh Rojas to the active roster. The club designated veteran first baseman Bobby Dalbec for assignment as part of the moves.
Rojas, signed in the offseason to a one-year deal, was reinstated from the 10-day injured list. He fractured a toe on his right foot near the end of spring training and had been sidelined since March 15. He completed a three-game rehab stint with Triple-A Charlotte before his activation.
Rojas expressed excitement about joining the team. "I'm excited, it's my Opening Day," Rojas said. "I'm still a little sore... I can do everything full speed, so that's what I was waiting for." He added that playing through the injury at less than full speed would not have been beneficial to the team, as his game relies heavily on athleticism for things like running the bases, making plays in the hole, and beating out infield singles.
The 30-year-old infielder has six seasons of major league experience with the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners. He holds a career .247/.324/.362 slash line with 34 homers and 59 stolen bases. He is expected to contribute around the infield for the White Sox.
Bobby Dalbec made seven appearances with the White Sox after his contract was selected from Charlotte on April 20. The 29-year-old hit .222/.333/.278 with one double and one RBI during his time on the active roster. He signed with the club as a free agent in January.
Dalbec spent parts of five seasons with the Boston Red Sox, hitting .243/.308/.511 with 33 home runs in 156 games between 2020 and 2021, but struggled to maintain that production in subsequent years. The designation for assignment opens a one-week window for the White Sox to trade Dalbec, or he can be claimed on waivers by another club. If he clears waivers, he could elect free agency.In addition to Rojas's reinstatement and Dalbec's DFA, the White Sox made four other roster transactions. The club recalled left-hander Tyler Gilbert from Triple-A Charlotte. Gilbert previously served as an opener three times in a four-game span before being optioned.
The White Sox also selected the contract of right-hander Caleb Freeman from Charlotte. Freeman, 27, will make his major league debut. He joined the White Sox minor league system in 2019 and has compiled a 1.35 ERA over 13â…“ innings in relief appearances between Charlotte and Double-A Birmingham this season.
Freeman shared his gratitude for the opportunity. "The minor leagues are tough, this is going on Year 7 of pro ball right now," Freeman said. "I'm just grateful to be here and ready to go."
Rounding out the moves, the White Sox placed left-handed reliever Fraser Ellard on the 15-day injured list with a left lat strain. Ellard had recently returned from the injured list. Right-handed reliever Penn Murfee was optioned to Charlotte.
