After only playing 19 games so far in 2026, the Chicago White Sox are looking for a replacement after the latest Kyle Teel injury. The catcher suffered a high ankle sprain in Monday’s game against the Texas Rangers. On Tuesday, the White Sox announced he would miss at least 6-12 weeks and placed him on the 10-day IL. With a return not likely until at least mid-September, here are some options Chicago has to fill the gap while Teel is out.
After the win against the Rangers on Monday night, the White Sox recalled catcher Edgar Quero from AAA. With catcher Drew Romo already on the roster, recalling Quero was expected due to having already spent time in Chicago this season. While Teel was only batting .190 with two home runs this season, going with Romo and Quero would greatly limit the team’s offensive production from behind the plate.
As a perfect encapsulation of his offensive struggles, after replacing Teel in the lineup Monday, Romo’s double was his first extra-base hit since June 3. The double brought his season batting average up to .134 in 112 at-bats in 2026. Not known for his power hitting, Romo has five home runs on the season with 11 runs batted in and an OPS of .535.
After breaking camp with the major league team, Quero was sent down to AAA when Teel was activated on June 22. After a promising rookie season in 2025, the 23-year-old struggled before his demotion, batting .187 in 150 at-bats. Quero only managed two home runs with 15 runs batted in and a .486 OPS.
Likelihood Rank: First
If the White Sox choose not to be content with a lack of offense at catcher, they could make a trade for a catcher ahead of the August 3rd deadline. With a lack of catchers openly available at the upcoming deadline, Chicago could look for a modest option to hold them over while Teel recovers. New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez and Athletics catcher Jonah Heim would be ideal candidates if the White Sox wanted to make a trade.
Currently in last place in the National League East, the Mets have let it be known that nearly everyone on their roster is available for trade. Under club control throughout 2028, Alvarez would likely command a strong return in a trade. Adding his potent offense to the roster would give the White Sox a strong pair at the position for the next couple of seasons. In 66 games this season, he is hitting .257 with 11 home runs and 24 runs batted in with a .766 OPS.
A more likely addition out of the two catchers, Heim would cost significantly less in a trade than Alvarez. Backing up All-Star Shae Langeliers, he is hitting .230 for the Athletics this season in 54 games. The 31-year-old has nine home runs and 30 runs batted in with an OPS of .717. Unlike Alvarez, who has multiple contract years remaining, Heim will be a free agent after the 2026 season.
Likelihood Rank: Third
The White Sox could go with another option from their minor league system, catcher Korey Lee. The former Houston Astros first-round pick was unable to make the major league roster out of spring training for Chicago and was designated for assignment. After clearing waivers, Lee was sent outright to AAA, where he has been playing this season.
While he did not make the major league roster in 2026, Lee has played sporadically with the White Sox over the past three seasons. Now back on the Charlotte Knights in AAA, Lee is batting .239 over 68 games with the minor league club. The 27-year-old has 14 home runs with 41 runs batted in and an OPS of .478. If the players on the major league club continue to struggle, Chicago could be forced to give Lee another shot.
Likelihood Rank: Second
After finally making his way back from injuries before the season and during his rehab outings, the White Sox are dealing with another Kyle Teel injury. As the White Sox look to continue their playoff chase, they do have options to replace the young catcher. They could stick with their current plan of Romo and Quero, trade for a new catcher, or give former prospect Korey Lee another chance in the majors.
If you love sports, download Stadium Rant from the Apple App Store and join one of the fastest-growing social sports communities. Be sure to follow us on socials too — you can find all our profiles on our Linktree.
