Jimmy Lambert's Injury Setback Adds to White Sox Bullpen Woes

The status of Chicago White Sox reliever Jimmy Lambert became more uncertain on Wednesday as the team announced he'll seek a second opinion on his injured throwing shoulder. The White Sox shut down Lambert roughly two weeks ago due to nagging shoulder soreness.

Lambert is coming off a disappointing 2023 season after seemingly breaking out in 2022. The right-hander landed on the injured list twice with right ankle issues, which led to two demotions to Triple-A Charlotte. The results of Lambert's 2023 season were dreadful as he posted an 5.26 ERA in only 37.2 innings.

The Dreaded Second Opinion

The 29-year-old will travel to Los Angeles to have the shoulder discomfort examined by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, head team physician for the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Dodgers. ElAttrache is set to perform surgery on injured Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin, who suffered a torn labrum, an injury not uncommon to pitchers.

Should Lambert meet a similar fate, he'll likely remain sidelined for the 2024 season. Stay tuned to On Tap Sports Net for updates as they become available.

A Bullpen in Flux

The news is concerning not only for Lambert but for the White Sox' bullpen outlook in 2024. A sprawl of injuries has already plagued members of the team and non-roster invitees. Jesse Scholtens and Edgar Navaro will miss the 2024 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Starter Davis Martin and reliever Matt Foster will continue rehabilitation from the same surgery until mid-season.

The White Sox acquired southpaw Shane Drohan from the Boston Red Sox in the Rule 5 Draft, but the reliever has yet to pitch after undergoing surgery to relieve nerve compression in his shoulder. Presumed closer John Brebbia is making steps toward his return after dealing with a right calf strain.

Brebbia hasn't pitched in camp since being acquired via free agency by the White Sox but expects to be ready for Opening Day.

The Hits Keep Coming

Chicago may also be without recently acquired reliever Prelander Berroa. The team announced Tuesday that the righty will need time off due to an arm/shoulder issue.