Chicago White Sox Star Facing Significant Absence Because of Latest Injury

Chicago White Sox' star Luis Robert Jr. is facing a significant absence after suffering a Grade-2 hip flexor strain. It's a similar injury to one he had in 2021 that kept him out three months.

Mar 28, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox center fielder Luis Robert Jr. (88) singles / Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago White Sox, already 1-8 on the season, suffered more bad news on Sunday when it was learned that star outfielder Luis Robert Jr. is facing a significant absence from his latest hip flexor injury.

Per Sox' reporter James Fegan on social media:

Luis Robert Jr. said he couldn’t sleep last night out of concern for his injury, which he feels in a similar spot to his 2021 tear. He said it’s not as severe but doesn’t have a specific timeline yet.

John Brebbia is in a walking boot.

It’s a Grade 2 hip flexor strain for Robert

It’s a Grade 2 hip flexor strain for Robert

— James Fegan (@JRFegan) April 6, 2024

The 26-year-old Robert had a similar injury in 2021 and ended up playing just 68 games that season as he missed three months. Reports on Monday indicate that he could miss 6-8 weeks with this version.

Regardless of exact timeline, Robert Jr. is headed for a significant absence and that is a devastating blow to the White Sox. Already projected to be among the worst teams in baseball this year, Robert Jr.'s absence makes the offense even more anemic.

An All-Star last season, he played in 145 games, hitting .264 with 38 homers, 80 RBI and 20 stolen bases. Lifetime, he's a .278 hitter with 76 home runs.

At 1-8, the White Sox will open up a new series on Monday with the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. First pitch is set for 5:10 p.m. ET (moved back because of the eclipse). Triston McKenzie will pitch for Cleveland while the White Sox haven't named a starter yet as of this posting.

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