White Sox Sign Grichuk, Austin Hays Back on Shelf With Calf Strain

The Chicago White Sox made a pair of moves on Monday that signal some desperation mixed with pragmatism. They signed veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk to a one-year deal worth $1.25 million, and they're sending Austin Hays back to the injured list because of a left calf strain. Not exactly the headline-grabbing moves that turn a season around, but when you're sitting at 16-18 in early May, you take what you can get.

Grichuk Gets Another Chance

Here's the backstory: Grichuk was designated for assignment by the New York Yankees last week, then hit the open market. The White Sox swooped in and grabbed him on a prove-it deal. One year, $1.25 million. It's the kind of low-risk, veteran depth move that makes sense when injuries are starting to pile up. Grichuk's got pop from the right side, and at this point in the season, the Sox need all the help they can find in the outfield.

Hays Sidelined Again

The Hays situation is tougher. The White Sox are placing him on the 10-day injured list because of a left calf strain. That's the kind of injury that can linger if you rush it, so the team's clearly taking the cautious approach. It's not ideal when you're trying to claw your way back into contention, but you can't afford to have guys limping around the diamond either.

White Sox fans have to hope Grichuk can contribute right away and that Hays gets healthy sooner rather than later. The team's got ground to make up, and every game matters.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.