It's official: Eloy Jimenez joins White Sox's roster

Early in spring training, Eloy Jimenez was asked if winning American League Rookie of the Year honors was a goal this season.

"It's one of my goals," he said. "But what's important right now is get to the majors first."

Jimenez was optioned to Class AAA Charlotte two weeks ago, but his status changed Tuesday night after the White Sox wrapped up exhibition play with a 7-1 win over the Diamondbacks.

Not only was the 22-year-old outfielder recalled from Charlotte, Jimenez is expected to be in the starting lineup Thursday afternoon and make his major-league debut when the Sox open the regular season against the Royals at Kansas City.

"I look at him as the Babe Ruth of our generation," said injured White Sox starter Michael Kopech, who played with Jimenez at Triple-A last season.

Last week, Jimenez agreed to a six-year, $43 million contract that could swell to $75 million over eight years if two club options are exercised.

Acquired in the 2017 trade that sent Jose Quintana to the Cubs, Jimenez combined to hit .337 with 22 home runs and 75 RBI in 108 games with Charlotte and Double-A Birmingham last season.

The White Sox on Tuesday also placed outfielder Jon Jay (right hip strain) and relief pitcher Ian Hamilton (right shoulder inflammation) on the 10-day injured list, both retroactive to March 25.

Ryan Cordell was recalled from Charlotte to take Jay's spot.

The Sox are opening the season with eight relievers - closer Alex Colome, Kelvin Herrera, Nate Jones, Manny Banuelos, Ryan Burr, Dylan Covey, Caleb Frare and Jace Fry.

Pitchers Evan Marshall and Zach Thompson, catcher Alfredo Gonzalez, infielders Ryan Goins, Danny Mendick and Matt Skole and outfielder Preston Tucker were assigned to minor-league camp.

The White Sox also re-signed outfielder Brandon Guyer to a minor-league contract.