Beckham, Keppinger officially start season on DL
CHICAGO -- The expected move of second baseman Gordon Beckham (strained left oblique) and infielder Jeff Keppinger (recovery from right shoulder surgery) to the disabled list to start the season became official Sunday, retroactive to March 21. Beckham last played on March 14, but White Sox manager Robin Ventura said Sunday that Beckham had played in a few Minor League games back in Glendale, Ariz. since camp broke.
He could come off the disabled list next weekend in Kansas City, with Beckham making progress in his recovery before the White Sox left for Birmingham, Ala. Keppinger's timetable is far less certain, with general manager Rick Hahn stating last week that he's basically starting his injury rehab program over again. The veteran was unable to throw the ball without pain during Spring Training, limited to just six Cactus League games at designated hitter.
Marcus Semien gets the Opening Day start at second base in place of Beckham, with Leury Garcia opening as the team's utility infielder and fifth outfielder.