The Chicago White Sox are set to hire Will Venable as their new manager, a move reported on his 42nd birthday. Sources confirmed to MLB.com that Venable will become the 44th manager in franchise history. He takes over for a team in desperate need of a fresh start after a historically bad season, though the club has not yet made an official announcement.
A New Direction after a Historic Collapse
The decision comes after the White Sox finished the 2024 season with a modern-era record of 121 losses. The managerial change was seen as a necessary step for a franchise looking to begin a significant rebuild under General Manager Chris Getz.
Venable replaces interim manager Grady Sizemore, who was appointed after the dismissal of Pedro Grifol. Grifol’s tenure was marked by consistent struggles, and the team’s performance under his leadership prompted the mid-season change. The need for a new voice in the clubhouse became undeniable as the losses mounted.
The records of the team’s most recent managers highlight the instability Venable is expected to correct.
| Manager | Tenure | Record |
| Pedro Grifol | 2023-2024 | 89-190 |
| Grady Sizemore (Interim) | 2024 | 13-32 |
Why Will Venable was the Right Choice for Getz
Chris Getz led a thorough search for a candidate who aligned with his long-term vision for the White Sox. Venable’s extensive and varied coaching background made him a standout choice. He recently served as the associate manager for the Texas Rangers, where he helped lead the team to a World Series championship in 2023.
Venable’s experience under a highly respected manager like Bruce Bochy with the Rangers likely boosted his appeal. This championship pedigree, combined with roles on other successful teams, demonstrated his ability to contribute to a winning culture, a quality the White Sox desperately need.
Insiders believe Venable’s adaptability and experience with different organizational philosophies are key assets for a team in transition. His resume shows a commitment to growth and development, which will be crucial for the White Sox as they navigate a rebuilding phase.
Venable’s Deep Roots in Chicago Baseball
This is not Will Venable’s first experience with Chicago baseball or his first time on the White Sox’s radar. He was a finalist for the team’s managerial job in 2023 before the team ultimately hired Pedro Grifol. His familiarity with the city’s baseball landscape is a significant advantage.
Venable also has a history on the North Side, having worked for the Chicago Cubs. His career path shows a steady progression through key coaching positions.
- Special Assistant: Worked under then-Cubs President Theo Epstein.
- First-Base Coach: Served with the Cubs in 2018 and 2019.
- Third-Base Coach: Coached third base for the Cubs in 2020.
- Bench Coach: Held the role with the Boston Red Sox for the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
This diverse experience has prepared him for the challenges of managing a major league club, particularly one starting from the ground up.
What Fans can Expect from the New Manager
For White Sox fans who just endured one of the worst seasons in baseball history, the hiring of Will Venable offers a glimmer of hope. While an immediate turnaround is unlikely, his appointment signals a clear commitment to a structured and patient rebuilding process.
Venable’s reported vision focuses on player development and establishing a resilient team culture. He is expected to bring a disciplined yet creative approach to the dugout. Fans are cautiously optimistic that his track record of contributing to winning habits in Texas and Boston can be replicated on the South Side.
The road ahead is long, but the franchise has taken a decisive first step toward building a competitive team for the future. The focus will now shift to how Venable and Getz work together to reshape the roster and instill a new identity for the Chicago White Sox.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new manager of the Chicago White Sox?
The Chicago White Sox have reportedly hired Will Venable as their 44th team manager. He previously served as the associate manager for the World Series-winning Texas Rangers.
Why did the White Sox fire their previous manager?
The White Sox moved on from manager Pedro Grifol and interim manager Grady Sizemore after a historically poor 2024 season where the team set a modern-era record with 121 losses.
What is Will Venable’s coaching experience?
Will Venable has held several key coaching roles, including first-base and third-base coach for the Chicago Cubs, bench coach for the Boston Red Sox, and most recently, associate manager for the Texas Rangers.
Does Will Venable have ties to Chicago?
Yes, besides being a previous finalist for the White Sox job, Venable worked for the Chicago Cubs from 2018 to 2020 in various coaching capacities.
What is the main goal for the White Sox under Will Venable?
The primary goal is to lead the team through a “longer-term rebuild.” His focus will be on player development, fostering a positive team culture, and building a competitive team for the future.
