White Sox Strategy: Benintendi and Grichuk Against Tigers

Andrew Benintendi wasn’t in the Chicago White Sox lineup on Friday against the Detroit Tigers’ left-hander Tarik Skubal. Despite Benintendi’s impressive pinch-hit grand slam on Thursday against the New York Yankees, which led the Sox to a 5-1 victory and marked his third home run in six games, he was not expected to start due to manager Will Venable’s strategy. Venable typically benches Benintendi against left-handed pitchers.

Instead, Venable opted for Randall Grichuk as the designated hitter. Grichuk rewarded this decision with a home run off Skubal in the first inning. Skubal showed visible frustration during the fifth inning, gesturing toward the White Sox dugout after striking out Colson Montgomery. The reason for his agitation remained unclear, but the umpires discussed the incident.

Benintendi has had only six starts against left-handers this season, similar to the previous year. Although he signed a five-year, $75 million contract in 2023, he has accepted his limited role on the rebuilding team, prioritizing team success. Grichuk, with an OPS of .987 against left-handed pitchers, has earned his place in these matchups. Following his grand slam, Benintendi expressed contentment with his role, acknowledging his understanding of the team’s strategy and changes over his career.

“I know my role now,” Benintendi stated. He is approaching his 32nd birthday and recognizes the potential for more years of contribution, although likely not as an outfielder. Despite three seasons of struggles with the White Sox, he remains committed to winning, even if it means reduced playtime.

Venable highlighted Benintendi’s importance to the team. “He plays an important role both on and off the field,” he said. While Grichuk and others face left-handed pitchers, Benintendi eagerly contributes when opportunities arise. Venable emphasized Benintendi’s readiness, as demonstrated by his recent performances.

The White Sox count on leadership from veterans like Benintendi and Grichuk, especially with the introduction of younger players. Benintendi takes a less vocal approach, allowing younger teammates to take charge. “This is their team now,” he remarked. Having experienced a rebuilding phase, the team now aims for consistent success.

Benintendi’s performance has surged since Munetaka Murakami’s injury. Over 16 games, he has hit six home runs and secured 14 RBIs, achieving a 1.095 OPS. June has consistently been Benintendi’s peak month with a career-best .823 OPS.

His grand slam remains one of the Sox’s most pivotal moments of the season, marking the first pinch-hit grand slam by a Sox player since 2012. Benintendi joined an exclusive group of visitors to achieve this feat at Yankee Stadium.

The White Sox approached the series against the Tigers aware of the opportunity to affect Detroit’s future. The Tigers, trailing the White Sox and Cleveland Guardians by nine games, faced further challenges with Justin Verlander’s scratched return due to a hamstring injury. Without improvement, the Tigers risk a trade deadline sell-off.

Tarik Skubal acknowledged the team’s precarious position, emphasizing the significance of the series and their dwindling margin for error. The Sox maintained uncertainty about the starter for Saturday, but Davis Martin remained scheduled for Sunday.

Despite the Tigers’ struggles, they pose a threat to the White Sox, who recently secured wins against top MLB teams. The path to respectability demands continued commitment and resilience.