White Sox Promote SS Tim Anderson To Big Leagues

(CBS) Continuing a flurry of roster moves as they look to right a season on the brink, the White Sox have called up shortstop Tim Anderson, their top prospect, according to multiple reports.

The team's first-round pick in 2013, the 22-year-old Anderson is hitting .304 with four homers, 20 RBIs and a .734 OPS at Triple-A Charlotte this season. In a corresponding move, the White Sox parted ways with veteran shortstop Jimmy Rollins by designating him for assignment. Rollins was struggling, hitting .221 with a .624 OPS.

Anderson is expected to receive regular playing time at shortstop, though Tyler Saladino figures to remain in the infield mix as well.

"Ultimately, when Tim arrives in Chicago it will be because we feel he's ready to help make us better, not because of anything that is going on in this clubhouse," White Sox general manager Rick Hahn said Thursday. "More about what Tim is capable of doing at the big league level."

Anderson expressed his appreciation on Twitter.

The promotion of Anderson comes a day after the White Sox signed first baseman/designated hitter Justin Morneau to a one-year deal and designated right-hander Mat Latos for assignment. Morneau has been placed on the 15-day disabled list as he continues to recover from elbow surgery in the offseason. Last Saturday, the White Sox also acquired right-hander James Shields in a trade with the Padres.

After starting 23-10 and building a six-game lead in the AL Central, the White Sox have fallen to 30-30 and are fourth in the division, 3.5 games behind the first-place Indians.

Barstool Sports' Dave Williams first reported the news that Anderson had been called up.