Italy to replace catcher Teel, who exits vs. USA with right hamstring discomfort

HOUSTON -- A big night for Team Italy catcher Kyle Teel ended abruptly, as the young White Sox backstop injured himself running the bases in World Baseball Classic pool play in an 8-6 victory over Team USA on Tuesday night at Daikin Park.

Teel led an early barrage against the Americans by launching a solo home run off Nolan McLean to the Crawford Boxes in the second inning. He then drew a walk in the fourth and doubled in the sixth. But while sliding into second on the hustle double, Teel winced. He pounded the ground in frustration, seemingly knowing right away that his night was over with right hamstring discomfort.

Italy manager Francisco Cervelli said the team will have to replace Teel on the roster with bullpen catcher Andres Annunziata.

“He's one of my catchers in Italy,” Cervelli said. “That's the only one we've got. He's been working hard with us. I think he's the guy, because we don't have anybody else.”

The 14th overall pick by the Red Sox in the 2023 Draft, Teel was a major piece of the White Sox’s return in the trade that sent Garrett Crochet to Boston. In his first taste of the Majors last year, Teel slashed .273/.375/.411 with eight homers and 11 doubles in 78 games.

Teel, 24, was 4-for-6 for Team Italy in pool play.