The Chicago White Sox are calling up two key pitching prospects from Triple-A Charlotte as the club faces a bullpen crisis. Both Hagen Smith and Tanner McDougal, both 22, will make their MLB debuts soon. The moves come as the first-place White Sox endure their worst stretch of the season, losing four straight games.

Smith, the No. 5 overall pick in the 2024 draft, has a 4.32 ERA over 20 appearances, including 14 starts in the minors. The organization recently transitioned him from starter to reliever to prepare for his major league call-up. McDougal, selected in the fifth round of 2021, owns a 2.86 ERA in 15 Triple-A appearances, including six starts.

The promotions replace Noah Schultz and David Sandlin, who were both optioned to Triple-A. Schultz, struggling with a 6.60 ERA in 15 appearances, was pulled early in Friday's game due to a mound visit rule violation involving manager Will Venable and pitching coach Zach Bove. Sandlin's demotion was expected after he threw 5.1 innings in relief.

To clear roster space, the White Sox designated right-hander Winkleman Gonzalez for assignment. Despite the losing streak, Chicago maintains first place in the AL Central, two games ahead of the Guardians and Twins.