Leury Garcia called up by White Sox

The White Sox have called up INF/OF Leury Garcia.  Garcia, 22, will be in Kansas City for tonight's game. He takes the roster spot of Blake Tekotte, who was optioned to Triple-A Charlotte last night.

After being acquired from Texas in the Alex Rios trade, Garcia played 8 games with Charlotte. In 32 plate appearances, he had 8 hits (including a double), 1 walk and 8 strikeouts. The Dominican also stole three bases in three chances.

While with the Knights, he played 5 games at shortstop, 2 games at second base and 1 game in center field. The White Sox will likely use him in a similar super-utility role while adding third base to the mix.

The switch-hitter began the season in the majors with the Rangers but was unimpressive on the offensive side: .192/.236/.231 in 57 plate appearances. However, he did showcase his calling card, plus defense.  He returned to the minors in mid-June.

Garcia's ceiling is likely a glove-first utility player, as he simply does not have enough pop or plate discipline to play everyday.  It is likely his growing pains in the majors will continue, both on the offensive-side and on defense, where, like many young players, he's prone to mix in silly mistakes between spectacular plays.  His plus plus speed and good baserunning skills, however, should provide immediate dividends.

He will wear No. 28.