Kyle Teel Experiences Another Setback In White Sox Return

Catching depth was supposed to be one of the Chicago White Sox strengths entering the 2026 season. But that depth was dealt an early blow when Kyle Teel suffered a grade 2 hamstring strain during the World Baseball Classic, an injury expected to sideline him for 4-6 weeks. 

Teel has now entered the sixth week of his rehab and has yet to suit up for the White Sox this season. While Teel had begun ramping up baseball activities, according to Bruce Levine, he experienced a setback last week, with running remaining the primary issue. White Sox general manager Chris Getz also confirmed that there is currently no set date for rehab games yet. 

“He’s been out for a while now. He missed a chunk of Spring Training and all the regular season so far. So, you want some at-bats, you want him to experience the different nuances in every game. Behind the plate, baserunning, and certainly the at-bats as well,” Getz told reporters during his media availability on Friday.

Teel has resumed catching and initially hoped to return during the White Sox’s first homestand against the Blue Jays. However, lingering soreness while hitting has delayed that timeline. While the ultra-competitive Teel has pushed to get back on the field, the White Sox are opting to err on the side of caution.

While the White Sox bats have begun to heat up, having Teel out of the lineup has been a major blow. Edgar Quero, who was expected to split time behind the plate with Teel this season, has failed to capitalize on his opportunity for extended playing time.

Quero has struggled mightily in ABS challenges behind the plate this season while floundering on offense. In 72 plate appearances, he is slashing .153/.271/.169 with just a 30% hard hit rate. Of his nine hits this season, only one has gone for extra bases. Quero appears to be pressing at the plate, which is why Teel’s return could provide a much-needed reset, allowing him to face fewer left-handers, an area he has struggled with early in his career.

While there is still time for Quero to turn things around, getting Teel back in the lineup figures to provide the White Sox with an offensive boost. Teel is coming off an impressive rookie campaign in which he slashed .275/.375/.411 with eight home runs and 35 RBIs across 78 games, while also emerging as one of the clubhouse’s spark plugs.

For the time being, the White Sox will have to hope Quero finds his stride at the plate sooner rather than later, given Teel’s uncertain status.