He’s back: Gordon Beckham returns to the Chicago White Sox

Mar 11, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Chicago White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham (15) is congratulated by first baseman Jose Abreu (79) after hitting a solo home run in third inning against the Texas Rangers at Camelback Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

Former first round pick Gordon Beckham returns to the Chicago White Sox starting line up Thursday at the Detroit Tigers, his first game of the 2014 season.

Beckham batted .267 last season, in 103 games. In those games he had five home runs, one triple and 22 doubles.

In 12 games at the Double-A Birmingham Barons during his rehab stint, Beckham batted .163 with seven hits (two doubles, one home run) and scored five runs.

Beckham is returning from an oblique injury.

This is a big deal for the White Sox, because if Beckham can come into the lineup and play up to his potential, the White Sox will have another weapon on their offense.

Being optioned to Triple-A Charlotte for Beckham to have the roster spot was pitcher Charlie Leesman.

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