White Sox Place Brooks Baldwin on 10-Day IL with Back Strain, Recall Tim Elko

The Chicago White Sox have placed utility player Brooks Baldwin on the 10-day injured list due to a lower back strain, retroactive to July 8. Baldwin, who had been performing well offensively since his July 1 call-up, was scratched from the lineup against the Toronto Blue Jays as his back injury worsened, reportedly sustained during weight room activities. To fill his roster spot, the White Sox recalled first baseman Tim Elko from Triple-A Charlotte, adding power to a lineup that has struggled offensively. Baldwin's versatility has been valuable, having played multiple infield and outfield positions, but his injury comes just as center fielder Luis Robert Jr. returned from his own injury. Manager Will Venable expressed hope that Baldwin will recover over the All-Star break to rejoin the team. Despite his limited power and a high strikeout rate, Baldwin's recent hot streak and defensive flexibility made him an important contributor before the setback.