White Sox Talk Podcast

TICKET PUNCHED! Chuck Garfien is joined by CHSN's Brooke Fletcher and Connor McKnight to celebrate the White Sox advancing to the ALDS with their first postseason series win since 2005. They break down what the series victory means, the wild clubhouse celebration and dive into White Sox's Game 2 win over Hunter Brown and the Astros. 

The AL Wild Card Series is here, and Chuck Garfien is joined by CHSN's Brooke Fletcher and Connor McKnight to break down the White Sox's decision to use a bullpen game in Game 1, potential Game 2 starters, Randall Grichuk's role and their series predictions. Plus, Chuck talks with 2005 World Series champion and Astros and NBC broadcaster Geoff Blum about his legendary World Series home run, Houston's path to the postseason, Yordan Alvarez, the Kyle Tucker trade and the key pitcher vs. hitter matchups in the series.

The White Sox are postseason bound! On the latest White Sox Podcast, Chuck Garfien talks with CHSN's Brooke Fletcher and Connor McKnight about the Sox's first playoff appearance since 2021. Plus, hear from Chris Getz, Will Venable, Davis Martin, Munetaka Murakami and Andrew Benintendi inside a wild clubhouse celebration following the playoff-clinching victory over the Royals.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox veteran pitcher Erick Fedde to discuss his 2024 season, his move to the bullpen, and his recent success on the mound. They also talk about the team's September struggles, his hunger to pitch in the postseason for the first time, and what it will take for the White Sox to get there in the final week of the season.

Chuck Garfien sits down with former White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson. They discuss his career, his decision to retire, and what it means to him to be honored by the organization after all these years.

Chuck Garfien breaks down where the White Sox stand after the Guardians series, what went wrong in the losses, and what it will take for them to recover and win the AL central. He discusses the impact of the trade deadline, pivotal decisions from the series, Tommy Pham's importance to the team, and the opener situation while reminding fans that the season is far from over.

Chuck Garfien interviews Jomboy Media's Chris Rose to preview a pivotal White Sox-Guardians series with major AL Central and postseason implications. They discuss the surprise White Sox season, Cleveland's José Ramírez and Travis Bazzana, the teams' recent histories, and get Chris' series prediction, while also sharing stories about Ozzie Guillen and the 2016 World Series.

Chuck Garfien is joined by White Sox pitcher Davis Martin to discuss his return from the injured list, pitching mechanics, and what it's like competing in a pennant race. They also talk about the team's growing hunger and what's ahead as the White Sox push for the division. Chuck also looks into the past and how far the White Sox have come. 

White Sox manager Will Venable joins Chuck Garfien to discuss Pat Murphy's influence, Tommy Pham's addition, Sean Newcomb's impact, and the emotions of managing during a long MLB season. Venable also looks ahead to the White Sox's historic pursuit of an AL Central title, the pressure of a pennant race, and the possibility of winning AL Manager of the Year.  

Chuck Garfien sits down with Chicago Sun-Times White Sox beat reporter James Fegan to revisit their spring training predictions and assess where those takes stand as the Sox lead the AL Central. They break down why the White Sox can win the division, what could stop them, the Guardians' past September success, Sean Newcomb's value, Tommy Pham's latest comments, and James' final prediction for how the division race will play out.

Chuck Garfien is joined by Brewers manager Pat Murphy to talk about the White Sox' new style of play, Will Venable, Walker McKinven, and the balance between “old school” baseball and analytics. Plus, Chuck breaks down Joe Ryan's comments and looks at the additions of Tommy Pham and Jake Cave.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil to discuss the team's magical season, the division race, and his road to recovery from Tommy John surgery. Vasil also reacts to quotes from his roomate and teammate Chase Meidroth, looks ahead to the White Sox Magic Wand Giveaway, and imagines what a potential division-clinching celebration could be like.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox catcher Jake Rogers to discuss his whirlwind journey from the Tigers to the Orioles, Red Sox, and White Sox all in the span of 21 days, including his friendship with Tarik Skubal and the wild trade that brought him to Chicago. Rogers also reflects on his first game with the White Sox, his recent walk-off home run against the Mets, and much more.

Chuck Garfien answers White Sox fans' questions in another Ask Me Anything episode of the White Sox Podcast, covering Will Venable's big-game management, the starting rotation, Chris Getz's trade deadline strategy, Jose Urquidy's future, and the team's chances of winning the AL Central. Chuck also shares his White Sox MVP, the player who has impressed him most, his ideal postseason rotation, and who he'd want to see again in the "White Sox" section of heaven.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox infielder Chase Meidroth to reflect on his confidence in this team a year ago and what it's like to see the Sox in first place in 2026. Meidroth discusses his two-homer game in Boston, the team's sweep of the Tigers, his growing leadership role, Miguel Vargas' season, his connection with Sam Antonacci, Mike Vasil's magic, and his ultimate goal of winning a World Series and what he might do if that day comes.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor about being in first place, and whether playoff experience matters. He also breaks down his development as a pitcher, from his slider, sinker, and changeup to his preparation, use of data, and the step he's taken this season. Plus, they discuss Sean Burke, closing out games, facing Tyler Stephenson, Fleetwood Fridays, Spider-Man, the Pope hat giveaway, and his dog "Ace."

Chuck Garfien sits down with 2005 World Series champion and former White Sox outfielder Scott Podsednik to go behind the scenes of the moment he broke the news to Ozzie Guillen that his No. 13 would be retired. Podsednik also reflects on what it was like playing for Ozzie and shares his thoughts on the 2026 White Sox. Then, Chuck sits down with the man of the hour and his tv "compadre," Ozzie Guillen, to discuss what it means to have his No. 13 retired and officially enshrined by the White Sox.

Chuck Garfien is joined by CHSN contributor and 670 The Score's David Haugh to react to the White Sox's busy trade deadline. They break down the additions of Luis Castillo, Brenton Doyle, Huascar Brazobán, and Joey Bart, hear from Chris Getz as he addresses the media following the trade deadline, and discuss the moves made by the division-rival Guardians and Twins.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox Director of Hitting Ryan Fuller to discuss the club's offensive turnaround and the hitting philosophy fueling its success. Fuller shares insights on Munetaka Murakami's power, how Miguel Vargas is the blueprint, Colson Montgomery's approach vs. left-handers, and #1 pick Roch Cholowsky. While also explaining how the White Sox are building a collaborative, player-first approach that's driving results from the major leagues to the farm system and much more! 

Andrew Benintendi joins the White Sox Podcast to discuss the team's breakout 2026 season and how his comments during spring training foreshadowed the club's rise. He also shares his thoughts on Munetaka Murakami, the team's young core, embracing a DH role, the trade deadline, and what it would mean to help lead the White Sox back to the postseason.

Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB Network and CHSN White Sox analyst Dan Plesac to break down the White Sox's outlook ahead of the trade deadline. They discuss whether the Sox have a postseason-caliber bullpen, Sean Burke's development, the value of postseason experience on a big league roster, and the team's challenging schedule ahead. Dan also weighs in on FanGraphs' playoff projections for the White Sox and explains why he wouldn't trade places with the Dodgers.

Chuck Garfien is joined by USA Today's Bob Nightengale to dive into the White Sox trade deadline outlook, including which starting pitchers, relievers, and position players could be realistic targets as the team pushes to contend. They also discuss when the trade market will heat up, the chances of a Tarik Skubal deal, the AL Central race, and what Bob is hearing about a potential MLB lockout in 2027.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox director of amateur scouting Mike Shirley to take fans behind the scenes of the 2026 MLB Draft, from winning the draft lottery to selecting UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky with the No. 1 overall pick. Shirley explains how the White Sox arrived at their decision, where Cholowsky could play defensively, and how close he is to the majors and shares stories from the team's draft process while breaking down other standouts from the 2026 draft class.

White Sox Director of Amateur Scouting Mike Shirley opens the podcast by discussing how the organization is approaching the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, what they're looking for, and what goes into making the decision. Then, Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo to break down the latest buzz surrounding the race between Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson, where each could fit with the White Sox, whether Jim Thome's son, Landon Thome, could be a second-round option, and more.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Sean Burke to discuss the White Sox turnaround, his growth as a pitcher, and the confidence that's fueled his strong 2026 season. Burke reflects on his MLB debut in 2024, being sent back to the minors last season, and how the team has learned how to win at the big-league level. He also shares his thoughts on All-Star teammate Miguel Vargas, the players he believes were snubbed from the All-Star Game, and Shane Smith as he works his way back toward the majors. 

Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB.com's Anthony Castrovince to break down whether the White Sox are baseball's biggest surprise, which team is the one to beat in the AL Central, and how the division race is shaping up as the season rolls on. They discuss the boom-or-bust nature of the trade deadline, compare this year's White Sox-Guardians matchup to last season's, examine the White Sox and Guardians' young offenses, talk about the recent rise in hamate bone injuries, including José Ramírez's and wrap up with Chuck and Anthony's predictions for this weekend's series.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox hitting coach Derek Shomon to revisit his bold spring training prediction of a top-10 offense, discuss whether this lineup has become the "pain in the ass" offense he envisioned, and break down the 22-run outburst against the Royals and the dramatic 9th inning back-to-back homers against the Guardians. Shoman also shares insight on Tristan Peters' season, Colson Montgomery's ceiling, Randal Grichuk's impact, and the story behind the White Sox's popular "Strokin'" shirt.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk to discuss why he joined the White Sox, his role as a veteran presence and mentor on a young roster, the art of pinch-hitting, and why he believes this team still has a chance to make a run at the postseason.

White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil returns for his third monthly check-in of the season, but this time the fans take over in a special Ask Me Anything episode. Vasil shares the origin story of the famous wizard hat, discusses what Kyle Teel's return means to the team, provides an update on his rehab, and answers everything from his exchange with Tarik Skubal and the future of the magic wand to Portillo's orders, potential managerial aspirations, whether he sees the White Sox as a playoff team, and more.

Chuck Garfien sits down with former White Sox Rookie of the Year, All-Star, and fan favorite Ron Kittle to relive the magic of the 1983 “Winning Ugly” team that captured the AL West title. Kittle shares stories about how the White Sox found him, what made that club so special, memorable moments from the division-clinching season, and the heartbreak of the 1983 ALCS. He also looks ahead to the upcoming 1983 team reunion, reflects on the unforgettable 25-inning game in 1984, and shares his thoughts on the up-and-coming 2026 White Sox.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Brian Kenny to discuss whether the White Sox are for real and what their recent stretch against the Braves and Dodgers says about the team's progress. Brian compares the White Sox rebuild to successful turnarounds from the past, weighs their chances of winning the AL Central, and breaks down the breakout seasons of Miguel Vargas and Davis Martin. They also discuss the role of technology in hamate bone injuries, preview his upcoming conversation with Ozzie Guillén, and look back on his memorable debate with legendary White Sox announcer Ken "The Hawk" Harrelson on MLB Network.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox catcher Kyle Teel to talk about where he is in his road to recovery from a sprained lateral collateral ligament in his right knee. Kyle also tells Chuck that if he weren't playing baseball, he would be a storm chaser.

Chuck Garfien opens the mailbag and answers a wide range of questions from White Sox fans in this Ask Me Anything episode. He shares his thoughts on Braden Montgomery's future, compares the current White Sox to teams from different eras of franchise history, and identifies the South Side hitter opposing pitchers least want to face right now. Chuck also tackles a wave of trade deadline scenarios, including whether he would pursue Tarik Skubal, which impact bat he'd like to add, and the surprising All-Star he'd target in a hypothetical deal. Plus he recommends some of his favorite White Sox books, reflects on memorable pickup basketball games during his ESPN days, shares his favorite pizza, and looks back on cherished memories of Stacey King.

Chuck Garfien talks with legendary broadcaster Bob Costas to revisit iconic White Sox history, including the 1983 "Winning Ugly" team and the All-Star Game that lit up Comiskey Park that same summer. Bob also reflects on broadcasting giants Vin Scully and Harry Caray and shares his favorite memory from Later with Bob Costas: a sit-down with Paul McCartney that he calls the highlight of his career. Chuck gets Bob's thoughts on calling Bulls games at Chicago Stadium, the dynasty years with Michael Jordan, and the moment he realized he had just called a historic shot against the Utah Jazz. Plus, Bob weighs in on Ozzie Guillen, the upcoming 80s-themed game where he'll join Steve Stone in the booth, and whether this current White Sox team has a path to October.

Chuck Garfien welcomes former major leaguer and current head coach for Fort Worth Christian Rusty Greer for an inside look at one of the most talked-about names heading into the 2026 MLB draft, Grady Emerson. Greer breaks down what separates Emerson from other top prospects, the big-league players he sees in his game, and why his makeup continues to stand out just as much as the tools that have him projected near the top of the draft. Greer shares stories from Emerson's rise, including arranging a meeting with Bobby Witt Sr. and Bobby Witt Jr., navigating a season filled with scouts and expectations, and watching Emerson thrive under pressure while posting eye-popping numbers. Chuck also asks Greer about his playing days when he was a bonafide White Sox killer. 

Tyler Davis joins the podcast to reflect on the winding path that finally led him to the major leagues at 27 years old. Davis revisits his days as a two-way standout at Sam Houston State, where he posted a 1.112 OPS in his senior season, and shares the frustration of going undrafted despite putting up huge offensive numbers. He also looks back on life in independent baseball with the Oakland Ballers and the moment everything changed when the White Sox signed him and gave him another opportunity to keep chasing the dream. Davis also shares stories from his rise through the White Sox system, including winning a championship in Birmingham alongside teammates like Rikuu Nishida and the emotions of learning he was heading to the big leagues. He relives striking out the first batter he faced in MLB, talks about navigating pressure situations with runners on base, and explains what he's learned from tough outings this season. Plus, Davis weighs in on whether he misses hitting, how he thinks he'd fare against MLB pitching as a position player, the teammates who helped him settle in, and what he hopes people remember most about his career years down the road.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox rookie Sam Antonacci for a discussion that dives into both his personality and the style of baseball that has quickly connected him with fans on the South Side. Sam talks about life inside a clubhouse full of gamers, why he embraces an old-school mentality in today's analytical era, and how he tries to impact games in ways beyond hitting for power. He also reflects on his first career home run that turned into an unforgettable inside-the-park moment and explains why winning means far more to him than any individual stat line. Chuck and Sam also get into the relationships that have helped shape his rookie season, from sharing a locker area with Mike Vasil to reuniting in the organization with former teammate Rikuu Nishida. Sam shares stories about the personalities inside the clubhouse, discusses growing more comfortable in left field, and talks about hitting in front of Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami in the lineup. He also opens up about the pride he feels every time he puts on a White Sox uniform and why he believes fans have embraced the edge and mentality he brings to the field.

Chuck Garfien chats with The Athletic's Dan Hayes to break down a surprisingly competitive American League Central race and why the division may be more wide open than expected, including for the Chicago White Sox. They discuss how the Cleveland Guardians continue to win despite losing one of baseball's top closers, while the Minnesota Twins have struggled to protect leads even with strong starting pitching and one of the league's highest-scoring offenses. Chuck also lays out what the White Sox need to do to seriously contend for the division, especially in head-to-head games against Cleveland. Chuck and Dan explore why the idea of the White Sox winning the AL Central may not sound as unrealistic as people think, including comparisons between the Sox' current momentum and Cleveland's 2022 run. They revisit the memorable 15-inning Twins-Guardians game from 2022, examine why Chicago now has several “Guardian-like” players on the roster, and debate which team is best positioned to finish on top when the season ends. The episode wraps up with Dan's prediction for the eventual AL Central winner and Chuck offering some playful advice to noted Sox-killer Byron Buxton before the next White Sox-Twins series.

Chuck Garfien catches up with White Sox outfielder Derek Hill for a conversation that stretches far beyond the box score. Hill reflects on the winding path that brought him from the 2014 MLB Draft to Chicago, including the influence of his father, Orsino Hill, whose own minor league journey and years in scouting helped shape Derek's perspective on perseverance, pressure, and staying ready through countless roster moves and DFA's. Chuck also revisits a powerful 2021 quote from Orsino about life in professional baseball. Later, Hill shares what stands out about the current White Sox clubhouse, from the chemistry between younger players and veterans to the growing buzz surrounding names like Colson Montgomery and Munetaka Murakami. He explains the mentality behind pinch-hitting success after delivering two huge pinch-hit homers already this season; discusses the challenge of quickly moving on after tough losses; and breaks down his clutch defensive play against Bobby Witt Jr. and the Royals. Plus, Derek weighs in on the Cubs-White Sox rivalry, the league-wide chatter surrounding the Sox' surprising run, and whether this stretch of winning baseball has staying power.

Mike Vasil sits down with Chuck Garfien once again for his monthly appearance on the podcast, and the White Sox pitcher starts by sharing the latest on his injury recovery and how he's handling his role on this team which includes a magic wand. Vasil breaks down the White Sox' recent surge, explains why the clubhouse has turned into a “madhouse,” and discusses the energy players like Miguel Vargas, Sam Antonacci, and Chase Meidroth are bringing to the team during one of the Sox' most exciting stretches in recent years. Vasil also reflects on a statement he made during his February appearance on the show and explains why this 2026 White Sox team believes it can compete with anyone, especially inside the division. He talks about the team's postseason mindset, the upcoming crosstown showdown against the Cubs, the celebrations happening inside the clubhouse, and what opponents should expect when facing the White Sox right now. Plus, Chuck and Mike discuss Meidroth's memorable homer against the Royals, late-night baseball highlight sessions with teammates, and a possible future segment featuring fan questions.

On the latest episode of The White Sox Podcast, Chuck Garfien is joined by ESPN MLB reporter Jesse Rogers to dive into the league-wide sentiment of Murakami and how numerous executives are realizing the mistakes they made in the evaluation process this offseason. Plus, what is Murakami's contractual future in Chicago and is the White Sox rebuild over? The White Sox Podcast is brought to you by Wind Creek Chicago Southland.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Munetaka Murakami's interpreter, Kenzo Yagi, for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most unique roles in baseball. Kenzo shares how he landed the job, initially thinking the call was a prank, and how he's built a strong connection with Murakami both on and off the field. He also walks through Murakami's detailed game-day routine, his own background, and the confidence it took to step into such a high-profile position. The conversation offers a deeper look at Murakami's personality, from the types of questions he enjoys to his thoughts on teammates and the organization, along with his awareness of the growing “Murakami Mania.” Kenzo also reflects on Murakami's experience adjusting to Chicago, learning English, and memorable moments like spring training interactions and Ozzie Guillen's introduction to the duo. They close by sharing one story that's stood out the most so far and what it's been like for Kenzo to be part of Murakami's journey.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Japan-based reporter Yuri Karasawa of JapanBall and WorldBaseball.com to get a firsthand look at “Murakami Mania” from overseas. They dive into the reaction across Japan, whether White Sox gear is popping up more, and if even seasoned observers are surprised by Murakami leading the league in home runs. Yuri also weighs in on his current pace; early expectations, including Shingo Takatsu's bold 55-HR prediction; and how Murakami has exceeded them so far. The conversation shifts to what's next, from Home Run Derby buzz to concerns in Japan about a potential midseason trade and what that means for fans hoping to see him in Chicago. Chuck and Yuri also revisit offseason skepticism about Murakami handling MLB velocity, break down his unique stat line with no doubles and all home runs, and touch on his speed, defense, and overall profile from his NPB days. They wrap with insight into how Japanese fans follow MLB despite the time difference and a quick check-in on Anthony Kay's start to the season.