Varland was hit hard this spring in a handful of Cactus League relief appearances and will open the regular season back at the Triple-A level. The 28-year-old righty made a career-high 26 relief outings last year between the White Sox and Dodgers.

With Steven Wilson (back) landing on the injured list on Saturday, Varland will have his first opportunity to pitch out of the White Sox’ bullpen after being claimed off of waivers from the Dodgers after the trade deadline. It’s possible if he pitches well that the 27-year-old hurler could work his way into some high leverage situations with the White Sox.

Varland was designated for assignment when the Dodgers needed roster spots after the trade deadline. Chicago has optioned him to Triple-A Charlotte. The White Sox have multiple vacancies on the 40-man roster so no corresponding move is necessary. He had a 3.00 ERA in seven games with the Dodgers this year.

Varland falls victim to a roster crunch in Los Angeles following an influx of veteran players at the trade deadline. There should be some interest in his services on waivers.