In just three games, outfielder Tommy Pham already has made an impact in the White Sox’ clubhouse. He has a stern demeanor. He’s deliberate and meticulous about his approach after learning from former Cardinals teammates Adam Wainwright and Yadier Molina and throughout his career.
‘‘[Sox manager Pedro Grifol] was telling me, ‘You’re always on,’ ’’ Pham said. ‘‘If it’s BP, I show up. Weight room, cage, batting practice. I told him: ‘I don’t know any other way. I don’t know how to just show up and chill. I have to put myself in position to help the team win.’ ’’
Pham is slashing .357/.357/.714 with the Sox. After going to the World Series last season with the Diamondbacks, he knows how winning can galvanize the clubhouse. Having another accomplished veteran will benefit the Sox’ young players, as well.
‘‘He’s all about business,’’ rookie reliever Jordan Leasure said. ‘‘He’s locked in all the time. He works hard every at-bat, so it’s really fun to watch. Kind of starting to learn from him by watching him and staying out of his way.’’
Keller back in the majors
Right-hander Brad Keller always seemed to perform well against the Sox as a member of the Royals. He is 6-6 with a 3.83 ERA in his career against the Sox.
Last season, he dealt with shoulder injuries and thoracic outlet syndrome, which limited him to 45⅓ innings. After injuries ended his time with the Royals, he signed a minor-league contract with the Sox in March.
The Sox selected Keller’s contract before the game Sunday against the Rays. In three starts at Triple-A Charlotte, Keller had a 4.50 ERA with 14 strikeouts and six walks. Now he’s trying to regain his footing in the majors.
‘‘I’m really happy with how my body felt, how everything has come along as far as recovery and how my arm has been able to hold up after everything,’’ Keller said.
Keller was scheduled to start Sunday in Charlotte, but issues arose in the Sox’ bullpen after six pitchers were used in the 8-7, 10-inning victory Saturday. Keller didn’t pitch Sunday, but Grifol said he will be available Monday against the Twins.
‘‘He gives us that length and security to where if something were to happen early, he can take the ball and finish it,’’ Grifol said. ‘‘And then after today or tomorrow, we’ll just reshuffle things and see where we end up.’’
Roster moves
To make room for Keller and reliever Prelander Berroa on the active roster, the Sox designated reliever Deivi Garcia for assignment and optioned right-hander Jonathan Cannon to Charlotte. Garcia had a 7.07 ERA in 14 appearances.
‘‘It was a really tough call,’’ Grifol said. ‘‘It was a tough conversation for me because I really love the kid. And I love his makeup and his arm. He’s got a good arm, and he’s willing to pitch every day.’’
Given pitchers’ volatility, Cannon might see himself back in Chicago at some point this season after making a strong impression.
