White Sox DFA Duke Ellis in Strange Series of Roster Moves

The Chicago White Sox made a head-scratching wave of transactions on Sunday. Before their series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Sox designated outfielder Duke Ellis for assignment, selected the contract of catcher Chuckie Robinson from Triple-A Charlotte, and assigned Robinson to Charlotte.

Ellis made his MLB debut earlier this season and stole four bases in eight games , during which he was primarily used as a pinch runner. The White Sox optioned Ellis to Charlotte on June 12, but he remained on the 40-man roster.

Sunday's transactions removed Ellis from the 40-man roster in favor of Robinson, though the 29-year-old backstop will remain with Charlotte. Robinson's minor-league numbers don't jump off the stat sheet as he owns a .234/.288/.386 slash line with six home runs, four doubles, and 25 RBIs in 160 plate appearances this season.

Why?

It begs the question as to why the White Sox executed these roster moves.

Despite Martin Maldonado's massive struggles at the plate, the Sox remain committed to the veteran catcher as they believe he provides value in managing a pitching staff and mentoring youngster Korey Lee. Lee has been a bright spot with a .247/.282/.392 slash line, six homers, and improved defense behind the plate.

So why add Chukie Robinson, another catcher, to the 40-man roster and risk losing a speedster in Duke Ellis? Perhaps the White Sox are preparing to cut bait with the struggling Maldonado. It's the only explanation that makes sense, but Maldonado is penciled in to catch Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks.

So for the time being, it just looks like Ellis drew the short straw in these paper transactions. That's so White Sox.

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