South Side Sox: for Chicago White Sox fans

In an audio-only joint, Malachi Hayes joined Brett Ballantini to discuss the inspiring (?) second half of the White Sox season and forecast what's to come for the club in the offseason: First off, the host can't even get the podcast episode correct, ah well Is the improvement in the second half real, or a mirage? There is evidence to support hope as well as cynicism; as Malachi puts it, best to just dip your toe in the waters of optimism, it's the White Sox after all Prediction we can immediately agree on: The White Sox and their lottery luck will find a way to NOT end up with the first overall pick in next summer's draft Second-most intriguing prediction(s): The White Sox will dump Andrew Benintendi or Luis Robert Jr. Most intriguing prediction: Either Kyle Teel or Edgar Quero will be traded   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bayleigh and Chrystal wrap up the season with their own baseball postmortem, and look ahead to the playoffs and 2026 season. Here is what was discussed: Chrystal's reaction to the White Sox season Bayleigh's reaction to the Red Sox season The Mets spent $300 million and went nowhere How are the Brewers so good, and is it sustainable? Daaa Yankeeees lose, Vlad Guerrero Jr., and Derek Jeter's lack of personality Tigers or Mariners Phillies or Dodgers Cubs or Brewers Not supporting facists or homophobes The first time in almost a decade without the Yankees or Astros in the ALCS Locking up Pete Alonso, and celebrating retirements and new babies 2026 predictions for both Sox teams You can follow Bayleigh on Twitter and Chrystal on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duty geezer Leigh Allan and his son and (while he's in Chicago acting in Ashland Avenue at the Goodman Theatre) next room correspondent, Will, do the expected evaluation of the 2025 White Sox season: the good, the bad, and the not-quite-as-ugly as the past two years. They also delve into the firing of four coaches the day after the season ended, most notably the dismissal of pitching coach Ethan Katz, who seemed to have done a very good job with a young and not particularly talented staff, many of whom were castoffs from other teams. What do Chris Getz and Will Venable have in mind? All they let on was the usual p.r. b.s.release, which no reporter with access to the team has bothered to follow up on. And, of course, because the podcast was recorded the morning before the start the playoffs, they make their predictions for the Wild Card round, not all of them totally sensible, but, what the heck, why not go with the gut. Or heart. Or anything but brain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chrystal O'Keefe, Joe Resis, Melissa Sage-Bollenbach and podcast rookie David James joined Brett Ballantini to look back on the 2025 season, from a few enticing angles: Hmm ... the return of Soxivus? Reviewing the final stats and standings for what ultimately was a disappointing White Sox team, whether you are on Team Chrystal (optimism) or Team Brett (pessimism) Vibe check on the 2025 White Sox, which features the brimming glass of David, Melissa's utter confusion, Chrystal's cautious optimism, and Joe's lingering doubts Brett challenges the sunny among us, particularly David and Chrystal, to explain what they anticipate in 2026 that will reward their faith Coaching staff changes for 2026, in light of Monday's breaking development that everyone but the manager was canned Is it fair to give Will Venable a pass for all the close losses the White Sox endured this season, and/or for a Pythagorean record that's 11 wins better than actual? Speed round: breakout player of 2026, 2026 win total, and ... with the White Sox be a last-place team next year? Please support our White Sox writing and podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Ballantini flies solo on this postgame podcast, addressing the ramp-up to 100 losses for the 2025 White Sox, and what infamy the club can still achieve in 2025: A rundown of the ins and outs of where the White Sox now stand (seventh-worst White Sox team ever) and can still fall to (sixth-worst ever) And with that, the second-half record is looking uglier; does the flat tire ending 2025 leave a bad taste in your mouth for 2026? Will the White Sox set a new losses high for this 2022-25 "era?" Two more losses will give the club the 11th-worst "era" in major league history It is the first time on the South Side, but how rare is losing 100 games three seasons in a row? Breaking down the club in terms of moving forward: the keepers, the pretenders, and the position moves that would make the most sense for a better 2026 Please support our White Sox writing and podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This edition of the mothership podcast features Dante Jones and Hannah Filippo, who join Brett Ballantini to discuss the encroaching and unprecedented third straight 100-loss season for the White Sox.  Believe it or not, some positives were discussed: Gut check! We all weigh in on how the season has transpired and the (brief) spike in performance in the second half; Dante's glass is half-full, Hannah has seen the floor and it's ugly On that note, this one's a freebie, White Sox Marketing Dept.: Chicago White Sox 2026: Everybody Has Shown Their Floor Concerns: No true reinforcements coming from Charlotte next year, with Hannah noting the lack of arms and Brett exposing the fact that there are ZERO bats on the cusp. Dante? He just wants Andrew Benintendi off of his team Brett reveals just how bad the past three seasons have been, against the backdrop of all of major league history Concerns heading into 2026 A brief digression into hate for the Crosstown team and an examination of rookies flying away from the team while in a playoff positioning fight Colson Montgomery crashed the majors prematurely, and that gamble paid off. Will that encourage the White Sox to be risky in moving players up ... and is that a good or bad thing? Does the flat tire at the very end of this season stain our outlook for 2026? Early, early, early predictions on the 2026 win total Please support our White Sox writing and podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stacey Gotsulias of Locked On Yankees joined Chrystal to chat about the Yankees and help set up the second-to-last White Sox series of the season. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Yankees Jazz Chisholm Jr. just became the third Yankees player to join the 30-30 club Removing the antiquated facial hair policy Rediscovering players' personalities How the Yankees did at the trade deadline Rushing Anthony Volpe and allowing him to play through an injury The magic number and how the Yankees might do in the postseason Aaron Judge's chances to win another MVP Voter fatigue and only caring about two teams is not helping the league grow What to expect from Yankees' pitching A lot of Carlos Rodón love and appreciation Ashley Rodón's tweets Spring Training curing seasonal depression and Lucas Giolito talking about pitching Biggest threat to the White Sox Keys to winning the series Fears heading into the series The AL Wild Card race has been fun to watch Waiting for the Dodgers to fall off A little Astros hate and reliving the 2017 postseason You can follow Stacey on Bluesky, and subscribe to Locked On Yankees on YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aaron Kirby joined Chrystal to chat about the Padres and their upcoming postseason, while also helping to preview the final White Sox home stand of the season. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Padres? The Wild Card is within reach What the metrics show vs. how the team is playing Was the trade deadline good for San Diego? Postseason odds and what needs to go right Dylan Cease is on his bad year Yu Darvish has not been the same since returning from the IL Worried about what Colson Montgomery will do Biggest threats to the White Sox Keys to winning the series The White Sox trades that will haunt, and old friends Starting pitching and bullpen stress Fears heading into the series Will we have repeat Cy Young and MVP winners? Cal Raleigh is very good and Aaron Judge is a robot Etsy witches are making the Mariners win? Stop using Twitter You can find Aaron on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Liz Thompson joined Chrystal to talk all things Orioles and preview the upcoming series. Liz, who has worked with the Orioles in the past, is still involved in baseball; Liz is known for her custom scorebooks and will be presenting a panel called "A New Scorebook" on Sunday, September 21, during the 2025 SABR/IWBC Women in Baseball Conference. The conference is virtual this year, so be sure to check it out! Here is what Liz and Chrystal talked about in this episode: What's new and what happened to the Orioles this season? The injury bug hit hard Shady front office business, season ticket fiascos, and only signing Charlie Morton Growing pains with private equity ownership The last great draft year A terrible trade deadline in Baltimore What the Orioles need to do in the offseason Renovations and fixing a bad fan experience Pitching expectations for this series Who is the biggest thread to the White Sox? Keys to winning the series Fears leading into the series Anthony Rizzo's return to the Cubs Paul Skenes and the fun and young pitchers this season Letting go of expectations for your team to have more fun LOL Mets! The 2025 SABR/IWBC Women in Baseball Conference You can find Liz on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 17th episode of the 2025 season features host Melissa Sage-Bollenbach and guest Julie Swieca Gannon. Julie spent a decade at Chicago's sports talk radio station 670 The Score, working as a reporter, anchor, and talk show host. She began her career there as a part-time producer and eventually hosted her own show. We're really grateful to Julie for agreeing to come back here at the end of the season to discuss several topics related to our beloved — or despised, depending on the day — South Siders. Whether you're a die-hard White Sox fan or not, there's something for everyone. It's a fun podcast by the ladies, for the ladies (guys, you're welcome to listen, too)! So, sit back, relax, and grab your favorite beverage because the girls hit a home run conversing about all things baseball, including: Overall take on how the Sox have looked lately Biggest differences between the first half and the second half of the season Young talent and rookies who have impressed the most Recent games and series that demonstrate where the team is headed Players most likely to stick around for 2026 Thoughts on Will Venable's approach so far this season Offseason moves that could put the Sox on a better track Realistic timeline for the Sox to get back into contention Don't forget to check out the Sox Populi YouTube channel (and please subscribe) or listen on Megaphone below. If you love our White Sox coverage, consider supporting us on Patreon to keep the writing and podcasts going strong!   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Long-awaited and highly-requested guest Catherine Tinker joined Chrystal to talk about the Rays and help preview the upcoming White Sox series. A fan of two teams, Catherine talked about her hometown team and what to expect. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Rays? Will things change or stay the same with new ownership? Rookies getting their feet wet The future of the Trop How baseball stadiums feel like home Losing Taj Bradley and Curtis Mead Pitching matchups The Rays' 2025 motto: "It's a surprise!" The biggest threat to the White Sox Bringing back plate discipline Keys to winning and fears heading into the series That Dodgers vs. Orioles game, from a Dodgers fan No juggernaut team this year Fearing the Pope Cal Raleigh's historic run Getting your name spelled wrong on TV You can follow the adventures of Catherine and her cat Cocoa (but only the latter when her teams are winning) on Bluesky and X/Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's time to look back on the month of August in the White Sox affiliate world and drill down into the stories of the season that are pushing toward their conclusions. Brett Ballantini welcomes Joe Resis in to chat about the four full-season clubs active for all of August, from top to bottom: A rundown of all six teams in the system Do the White Sox have an overt (or vested) interest in having their key starting arms sidestep Charlotte? Would strong outfield play — using recent call-back Dominic Fletcher as the fulcrum — affect the decision of whether or not to pick up Luis Robert Jr.'s $20 million option for 2026 (Joe and Brett agree on the decision that should be made!) A salute to the playoff-bound Birmingham Barons, plus special citations for the key figures in a second straight season of stellar starting pitching A bit of a deep dive into Jeral Perez's season, and whether he's still on an accelerated pace to the majors Who will ultimately have the greater impact in the majors, 2024 trade deadline pieces Miguel Vargas or Perez? (Again, Joe and Brett agree!) Beyond All-Everything Caleb Bonemer, who is another intriguing name among the many middle infield prospects? Congrats to Lucas Gordon for his call-up to Double-A, it is well-deserved Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rogelio Castillo is back to chat with Chrystal about the final White Sox and Tigers series. As the season heads to a close, the top team will host the bottom team in an American League Central matchup. Here is what they discussed: What's new with the Tigers? It's been a long summer for fans Javy Báez is starting to come back down to earth Trade deadline woes — Detroit prospects weren't going to be traded, even though another bat was needed Is first place still safe? Pitching, both starters and the bullpen, is a mess What to expect from the pitching matchup, spoiler: It's chaos Biggest threat to the White Sox Keys to winning the series Not taking the White Sox seriously Fears heading into the series The rookies are too good Staying away from Wrigley Field The World Series needs more diverse teams Indiana vs. OKC series was ideal You can find Rogelio on Twitter, both his personal account and his work accounts (Motor City Metrics and Tigers ML Report). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 16th episode of the 2025 season features host Melissa Sage-Bollenbach and guest Tania Farries. We're genuinely grateful to Tania for agreeing to share her fandom journey with us and discussing several topics related to our beloved — or, depending on the day, despised — South Siders. Whether you're a die-hard White Sox fan or not, there's something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and grab your favorite beverage because the girls hit a home run conversing about all things baseball, including: Tania's unique pilgrimage to becoming a White Sox fan How she's managed to survive the trying past couple of seasons Who does she currently enjoy watching What is her opinion about the future of this team Her win prediction for the end of the season Don't forget to check out the Sox Populi YouTube channel (and please subscribe) or listen on Megaphone below. If you love our White Sox coverage, consider supporting us on Patreon to keep the writing and podcasts going strong! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bayleigh and Chrystal had plenty to talk about this week. Here is what is going on around Major League Baseball lately: Cal Raleigh up to 49 home runs, most-ever for a catcher How are the Brewers this good? Colson Montgomery is so good (and thank you for Kyle Teel) Zack Wheeler needs Thoracic Outlet Surgery MLB realignment? Families receiving horrific DMs MLB is finalizing a deal with ESPN, Netflix, and NBC Sports on a three-year media rights contract BBWAA to start honoring relief pitcher of the year in 2026 The Yankees were absolutely destroyed by the Red Sox How does Aaron Boone still have a job? Red Sox send Walker Buehler to the bullpen and promote The Password Red Sox sign Nathanial Lowe, after he was DFA'd by the Nationals Season-ending hernia surgery for Austin Riley After mere weeks in MLB, the Orioles ink backstop Samuel Basallo to an eight-year, $67 million extension Jen Pawol, MLB's first female umpire, is back up! Matt Olson played in his 741st consecutive game, passing Braves legend Dale Murphy Twin Peaks and Lucas Giolito Braves already released Erick Fedde Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brandon Warne is back this season to chat with Chrystal and provide insight on the Twins ahead of the upcoming series. With both teams dwelling at the bottom of the division, Brandon had plenty to say about the fire sale and rebuild. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Twins Navigating injuries The news guys are trying to get acclimated, and every day is like Spring Training Post-deadline ERA Making sense of the fire sale and rebuild Brandon's optimistic attitude Falling apart in Sacramento and not being able to inject life into a team limping toward the finish line Pitching matchups and bullpen games The biggest threat to the White Sox Scoring runs early and often to win games Fears heading into the series The Brewers are using data in their favor Will it be a Brewers and Blue Jays World Series? Exhausted by the Yankees and Dodgers You can find Brandon on X, and on both Access Twins and Locked On Twins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friend of South Side Sox Tommy Barbee joined Chrystal to chat about the Atlanta Braves and help preview the upcoming series. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Braves? Why does Atlanta keep picking up former White Sox pitchers? Buck Showalter rumors The youth movement and useless veterans A season in limbo The trade deadline bust Not feeling great about the rest of the season Pitching matchups and what games the White Sox pitching squad might win Spencer Strider's routine Pitchers with autism The biggest threat to the White Sox Fears heading into the series Keys to winning the series The weird second half struggles featuring the Mets, Yankees and Tigers Pete Alonso is holding Chrystal's sanity hostage What fringe team will get hot at the right time? Hayden Christensen's time at Wrigley Field The anniversary of the White Sox being eliminated You can follow Tommy on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 15th episode of the 2025 season features host Melissa Sage-Bollenbach and guest Nancy Hays. We're truly grateful to Nancy for agreeing to share her fandom journey with us, as well as a very special passion project of hers that connects to Chicago sports history. Whether you're a die-hard White Sox fan or just have an overall love of sports, there's something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and grab your favorite beverage because the ladies hit a home run conversing about all things, including: Nancy's professional background in singing, dancing, and acting Her deep family ties to the South Side A very special passion project that blends her love for Chicago sports with her passion for the arts You connect with Nancy on her website at https://www.nancy-hays.com/. Be sure to check out her upcoming performance on Saturday, August 16, in Grant Park, starting with dance lessons at 6:00 p.m. Don't forget to jump on over to the Sox Populi YouTube channel (and please subscribe) or listen on Megaphone below. If you love our White Sox coverage, consider supporting us on Patreon to keep the writing and podcasts going strong!   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After some of Brett Ballantini's idiotic, angry and/or questionable ramblings in our staff discussions, Malachi Hayes suggested a ... debate? ... of sorts, centered around the White Sox trade of Adrian Houser to the Tampa Bay Rays at the deadline last week. You don't have to listen to the podcast to determine who won the debate: If you are a "gut" fan, you might like my arguments, while if you like reasoned analysis and optimism, Malachi is your guy. (By the way, first round went to Hayes, as Houser had his worst start of the season to open his Rays career.) This was mostly Houser and related debate, but we did move on to other things: Shout-out to pandemic-era media, as multiple technical snafus found the two of us back on Zoom for the podcast! Some of the crux of Brett's biscuit with Houser comes from some raw (albeit small sample-size) stats: No pitcher of 11 games or fewer with the White Sox has ever done better than Houser's 3.0 WAR — and you have to get to 18 games before you find a better (short) season. Additionally, over 125 seasons of White Sox history there have been just 18 better 11-game stretches better than Houser's 2.10 ERA ... and just seven have come in the DH era, and two this century Malachi counters that such stats make it even more urgent/compelling to deal Houser now, without (much) regard to the return. While Brett largely rejects the logic, Malachi pointed out that this deadline runs along the lines of 2024's, where a similiar-ish trade was made in sending out Erick Fedde for Miguel Vargas At some point, do you start collecting quality players rather than continuing to build for the future? Whether Houser is one of those guys, or Fedde was, SOMEONE has to be a building block instead of a trade piece Through process of elimination Brett isolated Malachi's best-case competitive window opening for the White Sox to be 2027. Brett is more of the 2029 belief As time ran out on our free Zoom, Malachi and Brett discussed some of the brighter developments of 2025: Edgar Quero, Kyle Teel and Colson Montgomery Please support our White Sox writing and podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bayleigh and Chrystal return to talk about a busy few weeks in Major League Baseball. The Trade Deadline: Winners? Losers? What on earth is AJ Preller thinking? Carlos Correa returned to his cheating ex The Mariners made big moves The Phillies picked up several pieces, and the Twins had a fire sale The Yankees picked up some terrible pitchers, and one is already back in Triple A The Rangers get Merrill Kelly A few Mets moves, including Cedric Mullins The Biebs is in Toronto Busy but bad trade deadline for the Red Sox Musician Jack White reveals he has completed his mission of visiting every MLB ballpark. The Speedway Classic or Fyre Festival 2.0 The Marlins swept the Yankees! How are the Brewers the best team in baseball? Tanner Houck's time with the Red Sox might be over now that he's undergoing Tommy John surgery Lucas Giolio, on the other hand, is turning it around post-injury The White Sox hot streak and youth movement Ryne Sandberg passed away at 65 after a long battle with cancer Hall of Fame inductions and crying during speeches Julio Rodriguez completed the 20/20 campaign, the second Mariner to do it this season Wrigley Field gets the 2027 All-Star Game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brett Ballantini, Joe Resis and Melissa Sage-Bollenbach gathered together to look back at the month of July in the White Sox farm system, with special attention paid to the surging Birmingham Barons.  Topics? Yeah, we got 'em: A rundown of all six teams in the system, spotlighting the likelihood that due to some "tiebreaker" shenanigans in the Arizona Complex League just one White Sox affiliate will make the postseason in 2025 Breaking down what has made Shane Murphy so special in 2025 ... yet still outside of the MLB Pipeline Top 30 for the club And a related point, maybe pay more attention to an outlet like ours, ranking 100 prospects, than MLB and its oversights ... or anyone else, for that matter How is Birmingham doing what they're doing? Joe rescues his poor host before the break by remembering that possibly the best pitching in the entire system is NOT Shane Murphy ... but teammate Tanner McDougal. Apologies, Tanner A dive into scary-close to .500 Charlotte, a photo negative of Birmingham with massive mashing and no arms. If manager Sergio Santos, with one title under his belt so far, has a secret ... what is it? Joe reps the Dash, because no one else will Christian Gonzalez, the extraordinary DSL youngster so good the White Sox gave him the unprecedented call-up to Arizona IN-SEASON The sadness of seeing some blue-chip prospects stall out A final quickie round, who is your favorite prospect in the White Sox system right now? Please support our White Sox writing and podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Claire joined Chrystal to chat about the Mariners and help break down the upcoming White Sox series. Here is what they discussed: What's new with the Mariners How we talk about players during the trade deadline is a little gross The Mariners are good but not great right now Pitching matchups: Bryan Woo, George Kirby, and Logan Gilbert The 17-game stretch leading up to this series Randy Arozarena and Julio Rodríguez with a 20/20 season, and others are on the way Keys to winning the series Fears heading into the series Blackout restrictions suck Bluesky has been great for connecting with other baseball people and checking in on their teams Do Angels fans exist? Rob Manfred is bad for baseball The game isn't growing despite the Olympics and World Baseball Classic Will there be a 2027 lockout? You can follow Claire on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 The White Sox roared ... well, squeaked ... through the trade deadline, sending off only Adrian Houser and Austin Slater and getting back all of three minor league pitchers (only one of them even listed on any teams top 50 prospects) and one utility infielder. Duty geezer Leigh Allan and his son and west coast correspondent, Will, talk about the White Sox activity or lack thereof, including what the future may mean for Luis Robert Jr., and then wander into the more interesting world of teams that actually got better ... or in some cases, worse (looking at you, Twins) ... and what all that may mean. The duo also consider the strong possibility the AL Central is headed back to its usual doldrums after a brief sojourn into adequacy in 2024, and commiserate with Guardians star José Ramírez, who deserves a better fate than playing for a team that doesn't seem to care any more. Of course, there is fun talking about the post-All Star break offensive surge for the White Sox, and chat about just how real Colson Montgomery should be considered at this point. Speaking of fun, there are also a few chortles about how little the other team in town did on the trading front, with best wishes for the team north of the state line to whip them soundly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy 100 episodes! Chrystal failed to acknowledge that in the episode, but we can all celebrate it here. Brett Haffner is back to chat with Chrystal about the Phillies and help preview the upcoming series. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Phillies Weird games Kyle Schwarber's All-Star Game experience Is Bryce Harper coming around? Trade deadline wishes The glaring issues at the bottom of the batting order Is Brett more optimistic post-break? What to expect from Phillies pitchers Who is the biggest threat to the White Sox? Keys to winning the series Fears heading into the series Could the White Sox cause a momentum shift for the contending Phillies? The Diamondbacks have a stronghold over the league for the trade deadline Where does Erick Fedde go? The White Sox are finally fun bad You can follow Brett on X, where he also posts content from Sox On 35th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick Mear joined Chrystal O'Keefe ahead of the Crosstown Classic to talk about what's happening on the North Side and preview the upcoming White Sox series with the Cubs. Here is a bit of what they talked about: What's new with the Cubs The recent dip to second place and foundational cracks being exposed A hot streak from the Brewers Trade deadline needs if you want to be a serious contender Cubs players turning into pumpkins Pete Crow Armstrong's funk Pitching matchups Adrian Houser's trade value Jerry Reinsdorf's hate is deserved Threats to the Cubs and on the Cubs Keys to winning the series Sunday scaries — pitching edition Social media is bad for baseball Baseball movies, and introducing kids to 90's classics You can follow Nick on X and Bluesky. His podcast, NickFlix is available on Spotify and Apple. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 14th episode of the 2025 season features host Melissa Sage-Bollenbach with a special edition of Ladies' Night-turned-Family Night with guests Shaun and Sage Bollenbach. Melissa's husband and son join her to discuss several topics related to the upcoming Crosstown Classic showdown between the White Sox and the Cubs this weekend at Rate Field. Whether you're a die-hard White Sox fan or a Cubs Fan, there's something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and grab your favorite beverage because this divided family trio hit a home run conversing about all things baseball, including: Assessing the current form of both the White Sox and Cubs coming into the series. Looking out for specific player performances. Discussing different aspects of the rivalry. Balancing allegiances for the resident Bollenbach Sox and Cubs fan. Wondering if a Sox vs. Cubs World Series is ever a possibility. Predicting the outcomes of the weekend. Don't forget to check out the Sox Populi YouTube channel (and please subscribe) or listen on Megaphone below. If you love our White Sox coverage, consider supporting us on Patreon to keep the writing and podcasts going strong! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been a while, but Bayleigh and Chrystal are back to discuss what's going on around Major League Baseball. Mac Miller Day and the White Sox putting up over 20 runs against the Pirates Red Sox lose 10-game winning streak, now have lost 2 in a row to the Cubs Are the Red Sox for real? Will Craig make additions at the deadline? Number 1 overall pick in the draft, Eli Willits, signs for $8.2 million with the Nationals The cutest thing out of the draft was the Rockies taking Ethan Holliday at four A's have the lowest attendance in MLB at the break Ronald Acuna's wildly impressive throw against the Yankees Mets retire 5 for David Wright Guardians extend pitcher Luis Ortiz's leave of absence in the wake of the gambling scandal Pitcher Aaron Sanchez is trying to make a comeback Tigers are on a 6-game losing streak Brewers are on a heater, 9th straight win after mounting a comeback against the Dodgers Daniel Bard and Yasmani Grandal have retired The HR Derby and the AS Game Swing-off The no-shows at this year's draft and how Scott Boras ruins everything Ketel Marte's home was burglarized MLB players have been advised by MLBPA to keep legal documents with them, amid ICE raids Dane Dunning traded from the Rangers to the Braves ahead of the deadline MLB is open to letting players participate in the 2028 Olympics Will Judge or Raleigh break 73? You can keep up with Bayleigh on Twitter/X. Chrystal is primarily on Bluesky but sometimes on Twitter/X. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Collette of RotoWire and FanGraphs joined Chrystal to talk Tampa Bay Rays baseball, preview the series, and catch up on what's happening around the league. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Rays? Steinbrenner Stadium and the idiosyncrasies of playing at a smaller (and dome-less) ballpark Rating the offseason and addressing needs at the quickly approaching trade deadline The Rays need bullpen arms Is there any wiggle room in the American League East? Making the playoffs in a tight division The downfall of the Baltimore Orioles Pitching matchups The threat that is Yandy Díaz Can the Rays control the running game by staying aggressive on the base paths? Keys to winning the series Fears heading into the series Bullpen vs. bullpen is close games The Blue Jays are finally better Cal Raleigh — a pleasure to have on our screens How are the Astros still in first place? And moreover, how are the Brewers in second place with no offense? Charlotte Knights and Tim Elko You can follow Jason on Bluesky. He also has a weekly column for all your fantasy baseball needs on RotoWire. Lastly, you can listen to his podcast The Sleeper and the Bust on FanGraphs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the 13th episode of the 2025 season, Sox Populi/South Side Sox writer/podcaster Delia Ritchie joins host Melissa Sage-Bollenbach to discuss several topics related to baseball, sports, and our beloved — or despised, depending on the day — South Siders. Whether you're a die-hard White Sox fan or not, there's something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and grab your favorite beverage because the girls hit a home run conversing about all things, including: Observations on the 2005 World Series reunion weekend. Reflections regarding the passing of Bobby Jenks. Thoughts on the Mark Buehrle statue unveiling. Opinions on the next White Sox player to get a statue or number retired? Speculation on the second half of the season. It's hard to believe there are only 65 games left in 2025. Thank you so much for sticking with us. We look forward to continuing our conversations with some fantastic ladies in the second half! Don't forget to check out the Sox Populi YouTube channel (and please subscribe) or listen on Megaphone below. If you love our White Sox coverage, consider supporting us on Patreon to keep the writing and podcasts going strong! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Graves is back this season to talk about the Pirates and help break down the upcoming series with Chrystal. The Pirates and White Sox both sit at the bottom of the Central Division and have plenty of unfortunate similarities, and Graves does a great job of pointing out their commonalities. Here is what Chrystal and Graves talked about: What's new with the Pirates? Firing managers and poor ownership How the Pirates and White Sox are nearly the same Remembering Dave Parker Yinzerpalooza weekend and Mac Miller Day Paul Skenes gets the All-Star start for the National League Pittsburgh's inability to develop prospects Ben Cherington and the distrust among fans Minor leaguers get called up and don't play Will Bob Nutting ever wake up? Trade deadlines A potential lockout in 2027? Pitching previews Andrew McCutchen lovefest Who is the biggest threat to the White Sox? Keys to winning the series Fears of being swept, or at least losing two of three Automated Ball-Strike system is coming soon The league is ready for a salary cap and floor What happened to the torpedo bats? You can find Graves on X and Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White Sox headed into the All-Star break needing just a .754 winning percentage the rest of the way to avoid a losing season. So with that in the bag, duty geezer Leigh Allan and his son and west coast correspondent, Will, look to matters of the field, including the draft. The Sox are gaining a lot of praise from professional evaluators for first-round pick Billy Carlson, an infielder from California who no doubt will have the huge success of their last California infielder first-round selection. Of course, that particular success has come in just the last month, not during the four-plus years Andrew Vaughn spent as a failure before getting traded to Milwaukee. Then there's the All-Star game itself, which did not feature Adrian Houser and his 2.9 bWAR in less than half a season, but instead had Shane Smith as the Sox representative, apparently chosen by people who last saw a game on June 10 — since when Smith has given up 23 earned runs in 18 1⁄3 innings. In more crucial off-field matters, the two ooh and aah over a story eight teams have shown interest in Luis Robert Jr. and his 67 OPS+, but have more hope a decent set of prospects could be had for Houser or Mike Tauchman — or maybe some combination of all three. Or maybe some contender will take Robert if they can also have the recipe for the Campfire Milkshake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Patrick joined Chrystal again to briefly discuss what's going on with the Guardians and help break down the series. Here is what they talked about: What's new with the Guardians A bad stretch and mounting frustrations Pitching has not been an issue Trade rumors Rating the offseason and trade deadline hopes Can the Guardians catch up to the Tigers, or are they destined to try for a Wild Card spot this season? Running out of room for improvement How Pat feels about the season All-Star picks What to expect from Guardians pitchers What the bullpen lacks Biggest threat to the White Sox Keys to winning the series Fears heading into the series Pitchers are starting to go longer The ASG in Atlanta You can find Patrick Ellington Jr. in many places! You can follow him on Bluesky and/or Twitter. I would also recommend reading his work on Substack. You can also read his work on Baseball Prospectus and SABR. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The gals on our minors crew abandoned us for June, so it's Joe Resis joining Brett Ballantini for a snapshot of the Sox minors that focuses heavily on the big names at the top of the system: A quick rundown of all six teams in the system, only one of which is in line for postseason play at the moment The incredible MLB debut of Colson Montgomery, as both Joe and Brett express some shot, but also some caution, over the early bounty of the new White Sox shortstop Are three starts enough to panic over Noah Schultz and his questionable matriculation to Charlotte? No, of course not ... right? Hagen Smith is back from exile injury vacation tuneup, but there's not much at all to piece through yet Out of the break, a moment of remembrance for Bobby Jenks Shane Murphy, please do not go to Charlotte — proceed directly to the South Side Tanner McDougal amazing redemption. Also, we out the clown who listed Tanner at No. 99 on his preseason White Sox Top 100 prospects Braden Montgomery joins Schultz in the Futures Game on Saturday, a tidy honor; will he see Bham later this summer? Please support our White Sox writing and podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 12th episode of the 2025 season features host Melissa Sage-Bollenbach and her guest Robyn. We're truly grateful to Robyn for agreeing to share her fandom journey with us and discussing several topics related to our beloved — or, depending on the day, despised — South Siders. Whether you're a die-hard White Sox fan or not, there's something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and grab your favorite beverage because the girls hit a home run conversing about all things baseball, including: Being a die-hard Cubs fan AND rooting for the White Sox! How is that even possible? Her experience as a female baseball fan, especially for two teams in such a passionate sports city like Chicago. What is so special about baseball that truly captures her heart and keeps her coming back as a fan? A favorite player who has been on both sides of town. Who is it, and why is she such a fan? Don't forget to check out the Sox Populi YouTube channel (and please subscribe) or listen on Megaphone below. If you love our White Sox coverage, consider supporting us on Patreon to keep the writing and podcasts going strong! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stephanie joined the podcast to chat with Chrystal about the Rockies and help preview the upcoming series. As a fan of both teams, Stephanie has the rare insight on cheering for historically bad teams, with only one World Series championship in her lifetime between the two. Here is what Stephanie and Chrystal talked about: What's new with the Rockies Reaching win No. 10 in June Bud Black's firing Is there déjà vu or a true difference between the 2024 White Sox and 2025 Rockies? Rating the offseason Trade deadline dread Not feeling optimistic about the season All-Star Game picks Someone has to win this series, but what team? Pitching matchups Who on the Rockies is a threat to the White Sox? Keys to winning the series Fears heading into the series Stephanie's fantasy team is thriving How Chrystal and Stephanie spent their wedding days at their ballparks Family traditions Jason Benetti being fumbled At least the Tigers are good You can follow Stephanie on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Duty geezer Leigh Allan and his son and west coast correspondent, Will, took the cowards' way out this week and recorded Sharing Sox before said Sox began a series at Dodger Stadium. Their prediction for that series may not be pretty, but the White Sox face no real pressure to win, as compared to when they next travel to Colorado and need to do well in order to avoid embarrassment. As for individuals, the chat naturally spent a lot of time on Luis Robert Jr. and the possibility there's no possibility of getting more than a basket of used baseballs for him by the trade deadline, despite at least one professional analyst saying he does have value, honest. That just as naturally led to discussion of other trade chips, such as they are, with pessimism anything could be had for Andrew Benintendi without eating bazillions of salary dollars. But there's optimism that some lesser lights who have played like brighter lights, such as Mike Tauchman and Adrian Houser, might do very well on the market, along with relievers Mike Vasil and Steven Wilson. That in turn led to a look at Baseball-Reference's team Wins Above Average by position chart, in which Sox starting pitchers and catchers fare well (Top 10), the much-maligned-before-the-season bullpen comes in about average (16th) and every other position rates 25th or worse. Once again, thank you, Colorado Rockies. Oh, yeah — we expressed admiration for Chase Meidroth, had our usual disagreement about the value of Miguel Vargas, continued to wonder how to evaluate the mysterious pluses and minuses of Lenyn Sosa.     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tavi, who gives tours of Dodger Stadium, joined Chrystal to share insight, fun stories, and to help preview the upcoming series. Here is what was discussed: Tavi's time on movie and TV sets relating to baseball What's new with the Dodgers Some timetables on pitching returns and Tyler Glasnow's rehab stint Ben Casparius Was Shohei Ohtani rushed back into pitching, or was it to avoid sheer pandemonium? Thoughts on the season so far Meeting needs in the offseason All-Star Game picks When the news about Ohtani was signing broke Kiké Hernández is a gem Remembering Fernando Valenzuela and Vin Scully Pitching matchups and what to expect Bullpen games galore! Who is the biggest threat for the White Sox? Spoiler alert: it isn't Ohtani Keys to taking the series Fears heading into the series Juan Soto settling in The Angels have been quietly good Fascination with the Tigers and wishing Jack Flaherty the best Why do White Sox fans still love the team? You can find Tavi on Bluesky and follow her Instagram for behind the scenes baseball stadium pictures.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well hey there, strangers, it's been a couple of months since our last mothership podcast. But with a day off falling right at the midpoint of the season and a platform change to Riverside.fm in progress, it seemed a reasonable time to sit down and talk White Sox baseball. To that end, Melissa Sage-Bollenbach, Kristina Airdo and Hannah Filippo joined Brett Ballantini to check in on Chicago's first half and future fortunes. What excites each of us most about the position the White Sox are in at the moment? Assessing Will Venable's first half-season as a manager What is most troubling about the place the White Sox now sit, still a mere five games better than the 121-loss club of a year ago? Taking a hard, not fawning, look at the Noah Schultz promotion Is there about where each of us expected to be as fans at the 81-game mark of 2025? Speed round: Will the second half be better or worse for the White Sox, as well as thoughts on a final loss total  Will Colorado break the modern mark for losses? Some of us feel the Rockies will BLOW PAST 121 Please support our White Sox writing and podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Britt, who contributes to the Casual Diehard/Willets Pen family, joined Chrystal to preview the upcoming series with the Giants and talk about how pitching is pretty cool. Here is what they talked about in a longer and somewhat silly episode: What's new with the Giants? Have you heard of a player named Rafael Devers? Buster Posey's new role Rating the offseason moves and trade deadline needs Can the Giants keep up the good momentum as the Dodgers start to regain arms? All-Star Game picks and funny memories The ticking time clock that is Tommy John Tim Lincecum, because of course! Pitching matchups Keys to winning the series Players to watch out for Fears heading into the series The poor Colorado Rockies What on earth is happening with the Orioles? Adley Rutschman, I Think You Should Leave, and the Driving Crooner Follow Britt on Bluesky. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 11th episode of the 2025 season features host Melissa Sage-Bollenbach and guest Julie Swieca-Gannon. We're really grateful to Julie for agreeing to come back midway through the season to continue sharing her journey with us and discussing several topics related to our beloved — or despised, depending on the day — South Siders. Whether you're a die-hard White Sox fan or not, there's something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and grab your favorite beverage because the girls hit a home run conversing about all things baseball, including: Career Reflections Julie discussed some of her on-the-air experiences, including one that got a bit scary, as well as some of her professional highlights, including covering the Sammy Sosa and Mark McGuire home run chase. She recently saw Sammy at an event! Did he recognize her? Tune in to find out! 2025 Season Expectations Julie shared her thoughts on the White Sox organization's current state and how soon she thinks the team will be competitive again. We promise not to hold her accountable. Don't forget to check out the Sox Populi YouTube channel (and please subscribe) or listen on Megaphone below. If you love our White Sox coverage, consider supporting us on Patreon to keep the writing and podcasts going strong! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bayleigh and Chrystal are back to opine about the last two weeks of baseball. Here is what the ladies talked about: The Rafael Devers of it all, featuring internet trolls Dennis Santana's suspension after trying to hit a fan The Dodgers and Padres feud, and how LA gets away with everything Will Tyler Glasnow ever be healthy? Sammy Sosa's return to Wrigley and how the Cubs ruined Steve Bartman's life Nolan Arenado, Juan Soto, and Andrew McCutchen's milestones Good stadiums with bad teams, and judging Fenway PR nightmare: Clayton Kershaw, ICE, and Nezza Shohei Ohtani is pitching again, and Chrystal has a theory Injuries and updates Ron Washington's health scare Wander Franco's trial is coming to a close Boomer takes about pitchers pitching Miguel Vargas appreciation You can keep up with Bayleigh on Twitter/X. Chrystal is primarily on Bluesky but sometimes on Twitter/X. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ruth Kapelus, board member and newsletter editor for the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR), joined Chrystal to discuss our neighbors to the north, the Toronto Blue Jays. Here is what was discussed: What's new with the Blue Jays? With the AL up for grabs, can the Blue Jays snag a wild card spot? Trade deadline moves Rating the offseason Anthony Santander didn't pull any offseason interest. Is that a bad omen? Needing another starting pitcher who isn't 40 and injury-prone Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: the extension and concerns All-Star Game picks Pitching predictions Will this series be even with no sign of power hitters? Keys to taking the series Fears heading into the series The bullpens are being taxed, and starters are not going deep enough Detroit domination Paul Skenes needs run support, and perhaps a new team to thrive Shohei Ohtani's return to the mound Rafael Devers trade Accessibility and marketing for players, blackout restrictions, cable and being priced out of baseball You can follow Ruth on Bluesky and subscribe to her Substack for more musings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices