White Sox Reportedly Calling Up Speedy Outfielder

The White Sox are reportedly adding some speed to their roster. According to James Feegan the White Sox are calling up outfielder Duke Ellis from Double-A Birmingham. Ellis is currently not on the 40-man, so corresponding moves will be on the way as the White Sox reshuffle the roster. 

Ellis is known for his speed and defense and can play all three outfield positions. The 26-year-old has stolen 34 bases in 35 attempts this season, which leads the Southern League. On the defensive side, he has played 178 innings in left field and 127 innings in center and has yet to make an error this season. 

Ellis is slashing just .258/.341/.308 with one home run and 12 RBIs. But his speed puts constant pressure on opposing defenses. Ellis’ glove will be a welcomed addition for a White Sox team that ranks near the bottom of the league in nearly every defensive category.

He was drafted by the Padres in the 20th round of the 2017 amateur draft out of Panola College, in Carthage Texas. However, he opted to stay in college. After transferring from Panola, he played three seasons for the Texas Longhorns. During his three seasons in the Big 12, Ellis hit .281/.409/.346 with 40 stolen bases and a pair of home runs. 

The White Sox signed him to a minor league contract in June 2020. During his four seasons in the White Sox organization, he has slashed .242/.330/.335 with 13 home runs and 63 RBIs.