Andrew Benintendi’s wrist discomfort predates time with White Sox

The White Sox are optimistic that Andrew Benintendi can drive the ball more than his .369 slugging percentage in the first half would indicate. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

A sore right wrist kept left fielder Andrew Benintendi out of the White Sox’ lineup for the last two games before the All-Star break. But the discomfort in his wrist dates beyond getting hit by a pitch last month in Los Angeles to some issues last season, manager Pedro Grifol said.

‘‘He’s been playing through pain the first half, so it’s time for him to get a break,’’ said Grifol, who thinks the issue has inhibited Benintendi’s power. ‘‘He’ll tell you he’s not a 40-home-run guy, but he’s definitely not a one-home-run guy, either. He’s got some pop in there.’’