(670 The Score) White Sox third baseman Yoan Moncada is trending toward being in the Opening Day lineup, but it's not a certainty yet.
Moncada hit second in White Sox's lineup in their exhibition game against the Cubs on Monday evening, when when he played five innings. The White Sox will then further evaluate Moncada's health and form after he participates in a more extensive workout at Guaranteed Rate Field on Tuesday morning.
The 25-year-old Moncada rejoined the White Sox last Thursday after recovering from the coronavirus. The White Sox will host the Twins in their season opener Friday.
"We're moving optimistically, cautiously," Renteria said Monday evening.
Monday marked Moncada's first game action since spring training in March. Upon returning last week, he revealed that he tested positive for the coronavirus as part of MLB's intake testing. He experienced only mild symptoms of the virus, like temporary loss of taste and smell.
"I must keep doing everything I can to prepare for Friday," Moncada said after he was removed from the game Monday. "I think I am on a good path for that. So far, I feel good about playing right now. I put in a lot of work on my legs over the winter and spring, so I hope that that work will pay off now trying to get back soon."
Moncada posted a slash line of .315/.367/.548 to go with 25 home runs and 79 RBIs in 2019.
"I don't think my timing is there yet," Moncada said. "I believe that will come soon. It will come with more at-bats. I need more repetition and to get my timing back. Right now, I am not so far behind."
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.




