The future has arrived for Jake Burger.
Days after being selected for the MLB Futures Game during All-Star Week, the White Sox called up the third baseman.
Regular third baseman Moncada left Thursday’s game with a bruised right hand. Moncada made an awkward headfirst slide into third base on Jose Abreu’s single in the third inning and rolled over his hand, which swelled up. He stayed in the game and scored on Yasmani Grandal’s single before departing.
Burger coming up to the majors completes a comeback run for the Sox’ top prospect. The No. 11 overall pick in the 2017 draft, Burger suffered a ruptured left Achilles tendon during a spring-training game in 2018, reinjured the Achilles in his backyard, suffered a bruised heel and was forced to miss two seasons of development. While he was away, Burger battled anxiety and depression, but he built a large following of backers who cheered him on as he climbed back to being a healthy, productive, power-hitting infielder. He’s batting .322/.368/.596 with 10 homers and a .964 OPS at Triple-A Charlotte.
The team also reinstated outfielder Adam Eaton from the 10-day injured list and optioned right-handed pitcher Zack Burdi and catcher Yermin Mercedes to Charlotte.
