White Sox's Ordonez out at least four weeks

Last Updated: Saturday, July 24, 2004 | 10:13 AM ET

CBC Sports

With an American League Central title in their grasp, the Chicago White Sox have lost their biggest bat.

Outfielder Magglio Ordonez, who returned from the disabled list two weeks ago, will be sidelined at least four weeks with bone marrow edema in his left knee.

RELATED:
• Player bio: Magglio Ordonez
• Player bio: Joe Borchard

Magglio Ordonez has bone marrow edema in his left knee. (AP File Photo)

The four-time all-star was also on the shelf from May 26-July 8 with torn meniscus in the same knee that required surgery.

Chicago (50-42) entered Friday's action a half-game behind the division-leading Minnesota Twins (52-43) with about nine weeks left in the season.

Ordonez is expected to be on crutches for the next four to eight weeks, with only a swimming exercise regimen. He will be re-evaluated by team physicians after four weeks to determine whether he can begin a rehab program.

Ordonez, 30, is batting .292 with nine homers and 37 RBIs in 52 games this season.

Chicago recalled outfielder Joe Borchard from triple-A Charlotte to replace Ordonez on the active roster.