White Sox Bring Back Tim Elko on Minor League Deal
The Chicago White Sox announced Sunday that they have re-signed first baseman Tim Elko to a minor league contract for the 2026 season.
Elko, 26, had been part of the organization since being selected in the 10th round of the 2022 MLB Draft out of Ole Miss. After being non-tendered in November and entering free agency, he now returns to the club for another opportunity. He made his major league debut in 2025 following an impressive run at Triple-A Charlotte.
Looking Ahead to Elko’s 2026 Season
Elko is unlikely to be available at the start of the 2026 campaign after undergoing surgery in October to repair a torn ACL in his right knee. The White Sox estimated an eight-month recovery timeline, which could put him back on the field around June or July. He also missed nearly a month during the 2025 season due to a right knee sprain.
Because of the injury and uncertainty surrounding his availability, Chicago isn’t expected to rely heavily on Elko at the major league level in 2026. His season may largely focus on regaining health and building momentum with a strong showing in Triple-A later in the year.
Still, the situation at first base remains fluid. Eight different players logged time at the position for the White Sox last season, and half of them are no longer with the team. Miguel Vargas, Lenyn Sosa, and Curtis Mead currently project as the leading internal options, but their versatility and offensive question marks leave room for change, whether through internal competition, trades, or free-agent additions.
If Elko works his way back into the conversation, he’ll need to translate his minor league success more consistently to the majors. The 6-foot-3, 250-pound right-handed hitter dominated Triple-A pitching early in 2025, posting a .348/.431/.670 slash line with 10 home runs in 130 plate appearances.
That performance earned him a call-up on May 10, and he delivered several highlights, including a game-winning homer against Miami, a long ball at Wrigley Field, and a walk-off single in extra innings versus Detroit on June 5.
However, his overall major league production fell short of securing an extended stay. Elko appeared in just 23 games with Chicago and was optioned back to Triple-A multiple times. In 72 plate appearances, he hit .134/.194/.328 with four home runs, eight RBIs, five walks, and 30 strikeouts.
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