White Sox catcher Kyle Teel suffers Grade 2 right hamstring strain in Italy's WBC win over U.S.

GLENDALE, Ariz. — White Sox general manager Chris Getz was lying on his couch and exploded in excitement after Kyle Teel's second-inning homer for Team Italy in its 8-6 win over Team USA Tuesday night.

Getz's celebration had just begun as infield prospect Sam Antonacci slugged a two-run homer in the top of the second. But those good vibes dissipated quickly as Teel pulled up after rounding first base before diving headfirst into second base. After being called safe, Teel balled up his hand into a fist and pounded the dirt in frustration.

Getz said Wednesday that Teel suffered a Grade 2 right hamstring strain, and the initial prognosis estimates him to be out four to six weeks. That's the risk players and organizations weigh when deciding to participate in the WBC with the season right around the corner.

"I have gotten feedback from some people on the Italy staff, and they like Kyle and Sam like we do because of the competitiveness, the talent that they have and their desire to win," Getz said. "It definitely took a little wind out of the sail."

Teel was very productive in his brief outing with Team Italy, homering and showing his command of the strike zone by drawing a walk and working deep into counts.

The 24-year-old was likely going to be penciled in as the Sox’ Opening Day catcher, but that plan went up in smoke. If it’s a soft-tissue injury, the Sox should take a slow approach with Teel. Those injuries, if rushed, can linger throughout the season and hamper Teel during his sophomore season. They have catching depth with Edgar Quero and Korey Lee that can hold the fort while Teel recovers.

“Very unfortunate to see him do that,” Lee said of Teel. “I don’t think anyone has ever seen him pull up. He plays hard every single day, and I tip my cap to that.”

Lee has been raking this spring, posting a .948 OPS with one homer and four RBIs. He’s even showcased some speed and stolen four bases. He focused on his speed in the offseason to ensure that he could impact the game in multiple ways, especially given that he finished last season as the third catcher.

"I’m an athlete and just picking my spots to go and talking with our baserunning coach [Jose Leger]," Lee said. "He’s been fantastic for me and talking to Will and talking to our coaching staff, and seeing what I can do. Last year, I was kind of in that pinch runner role and took it to heart this offseason. Got a little bit faster and a little bit leaner and was able to steal some bags now and kind of learn when to do that and how to do that."