UPDATE (May. 28):
Robert will hit the bench against the Tigers on Saturday. Robert had hip discomfort earlier in the week, missing Tuesday’s game against the Guardians and sitting out Wednesday’s game. He came back for the first two games of the four-game series in Detroit, going 0 for 7 with a walk.
His absence on Saturday could be connected to the same illness, however it’s unclear whether he’s experienced a relapse or simply needs another day to recover.
On Tuesday, star outfielder Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox left the game due to right hip stiffness and the team’s loss to the Cleveland Guardians.
Update on the injury status of Luis Robert Jr.
The Chicago White Sox are worried about Luis Robert’s ailment. Before the ninth inning of a game against the Cleveland Guardians, the starting outfielder was substituted. His departure from the team was later revealed due to hip tightness.
The White Sox said on Twitter that he will be evaluated daily:
Luis Robert Jr. left the game with right hip tightness. He is day-to-day.
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 24, 2023
The White Sox have struggled to a fourth-place start this season, and the outfielder has been a crucial part. Almost without exception, they have been one of the most shockingly underwhelming teams in baseball this season.
Robert probably won’t require any IL time, but his condition will be monitored closely just in case. Until then, there’s no telling how long he’ll be out of commission. If it is only hip discomfort, though, he should be fine to play again after resting for a couple of days.
This season, he is hitting.268 with 13 homers, 29 RBIs, and a 14.3% barrel rate. And on the defensive end, he deserves a Gold Glove. It would be devastating for Chicago if Luis were unable to play.
The White Sox are 20-30 this season, good for fourth-place in the AL Central. They are counting on Robert to be an integral part of their postseason run this year.
Eloy Jimenez has been out for the White Sox since May 7 due to an appendectomy emergency. The White Sox may struggle to keep their division lead if Robert is also out for a lengthy period of time.
Romy Gonzalez could get more time in center field now that Robert Jr. is injured. He can play all three outfield spots because of his versatility and powerful throwing arm. Gonzalez lacks power but makes solid contact and can get on base quickly.
The White Sox are crossing their fingers that Luis Robert Jr. will be well enough to return to action shortly. If for some reason he is unable to participate, Gonzalez is ready to take his place.
If it’s a more serious injury like a strained hip, he might be out for about ten days like Aaron Judge was a few weeks ago.
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