Rick Renteria’s body is in Austin, Texas, for the funeral of his mother. The White Sox hope his mind is there, too.
Joe McEwing, a super-sub during his nine years as a big-league player, will sub for Renteria tonight and for Saturday’s day-night doubleheader. McEwing hopes Renteria will not be tempted to watch the three games he will miss.
“We all want him to focus on his family,” he said. “They need him in this moment.”
McEwing’s message to Renteria: “We’ll miss you dearly but we’ll handle this.”
Jose Abreu returns to the lineup after suffering through a stomach virus.