In a somewhat surprising move, Sox Machine’s James Fegan has reported that the White Sox are planning to promote outfielder Duke Ellis from Double-A. The left-handed outfielder is expected to join the White Sox for the Crosstown Classic against the Chicago Cubs.
Ellis, 26, was originally a 20th-round pick by the San Diego Padres out of high school but decided to honor his commitment to the University of Texas instead. He then went undrafted in the Covid-shortened 2020 MLB draft and signed a minor league contract with the White Sox in June of that season.
Ellis had a breakout season back in 2022, hitting .275 and posting a 111 wRC+ in 109 games between High-A Winston Salem and Double-A Birmingham. He was unable to build off that season in 2023, however, as injuries limited him to playing a total of 16 games last season. He has returned to the Barons this season healthy and is currently slashing .258/.341/.308 with a 102 wRC+ through 39 games.
Ellis’s calling card is his speed, which he uses to provide excellent range in the outfield and become a danger to opposing pitchers on the basepaths. In 2022, he went 50-for-58 in stolen base attempts, and this season he has already swiped 34 bags while only being caught once. While he does not offer much power, his speed, contact ability, and defensive value give him a chance to become a useful MLB player.
Ellis is currently not on the 40-man roster, so corresponding moves will be required once this transaction becomes official. As we learn more, we will keep you updated.
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