BREAKING: Former Rebel Captain Tim Elko Called Up to Chicago White Sox

OXFORD, Miss. — Early Friday evening, X began buzzing with the news of the call-up of former Rebel captain Tim Elko to the Chicago White Sox, realizing a dream that likely began when a young Tim was a tee ball or coach-pitch player.

That dream will come true on Saturday, May 10th, on the south side of Chicago. The White Sox are promoting Elko from Triple-A to the major league team for Saturday’s game against the Miami Marlins at 6:10 p.m. CT at Rate Field.

BREAKING: #WhiteSox calling up Tim Elko from AAA, per @VinnieDuber. Confirmed by @ChuckGarfien. pic.twitter.com/xGIddSw8gz

— White Sox on CHSN (@CHSN_WhiteSox) May 9, 2025

Spending the 2023 season in A-Ball, High-A, and ending in AA, Elko was a Big League Spring Training invitee in Spring 2024 and 2025.

Beginning the 2024 season with the AA White Sox affiliate Birmingham Barons, the former Ole Miss standout has been a mainstay in the upper middle of the line-up for the Barons. In the Southern League, featuring two Mississippi teams, Elko was frequently treated to fans of his (usually clad in red and blue) with smiling faces on the road at stops like Pearl and Biloxi.

The Barons finished the first half of the season as Division Champions.

In 91 games with Birmingham, Elko recorded a .758 OPS with a .420 slugging percentage, averaging over a hit per game with 99.  He tallied 40 RBIs on 9 home runs and 16 doubles as the everyday first baseman.

In AAA Charlotte, Elko again enjoyed much success.  His 2025 stat line included 10 home runs and 23 RBI in 112 at bats with a 1.101 OPS and .348 batting average.

Earlier this week, AAA Manager Sergio Santos remarked of Elko: “If he got called up to the big leagues, he’s a guy I wouldn’t worry about…He’s more of a complete hitter now and he’s an amazing clubhouse guy. I have no control over the ‘when’ but if they do ask me, I think he’s ready.”

BANG!!!! https://t.co/jewbDgYowH

— Peyton Chatagnier (@peytonchat5) May 9, 2025

The Rebel Walk could not be more excited for and happy for Tim and the entire Elko family.  Four years ago yesterday, the Captain turned to the camera and uttered his famous battle cry, “Don’t Let the Rebs Get Hot!”  Tim, we tip our cap to you and respond, “Don’t Let Tim Elko Get Hot.” We wish you a long and prosperous Major League career.

(Feature image credit: Chris Muller, The Rebel Walk)