White Sox Talk Podcast

Chuck Garfien's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with former White Sox infielder Matt Davidson, who reflects on his time on the South Side and the unforgettable moment in 2018 when he launched three home runs on Opening Day against the Royals in Kansas City. Now playing in the KBO after a 2023 season in Japan's NPB, Davidson breaks down the similarities and differences between baseball overseas and in MLB, including his experience facing Munetaka Murakami. He also discusses what he expects from Murakami in 2026 with the White Sox, what continues to drive him to play, and how much longer he sees himself staying in the game.

Chuck Garfien's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza continues with White Sox catcher Edgar Quero as he heads into his sophomore season. He breaks down his work on framing, what he's learning from bench coach Walker McKinven, and why he supports the ABS challenge system from a catcher's point of view, while also sharing how he felt at the plate and the kind of hitter he believes he can become. Quero discusses his offseason training at Driveline Baseball and how it's shaping his growth. He highlights pitchers who stand out to him, explains how he fooled runners with pickoffs last season, weighs in on Munetaka Murakami, and shares why he believes the 2026 Sox can push for a postseason spot.

Chuck Garfien's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with new White Sox outfielder Austin Hays, who explains why he chose the South Side and what he sees brewing inside the 2026 clubhouse. Hays reflects on going from 110 losses to 101 wins in a two-year span in Baltimore and draws parallels to a Sox team looking to rebound from a 102-loss season, while sharing what he can bring to help spark that turnaround. He also compares this group to last year's Reds club that battled through adversity to reach the postseason. Hays opens up about overcoming a kidney infection in 2024 and how a conversation with Kyle Schwarber helped him address the issues he was dealing with, plus his strong relationship with hitting director Ryan Fuller, who played a key role in his 2023 All-Star campaign. He offers advice to Colson Montgomery on avoiding a sophomore slump and gives his early impressions of the 2026 Sox. And yes, he gives his two cents on Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, too.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox top prospect Noah Schultz to break down the growth he's made since being drafted and how adversity shaped his 2025 season. Schultz opens up about battling knee tendinitis, what he learned during the downtime, and why he's entering 2026 confident and ready for a bounce-back year. He also explains how simplifying his mechanics has taken his game to another level. Schultz talks about his offseason workouts alongside Luis Robert Jr., Juan Soto, Mark Vientos, and Joey Gallo, and what he's picked up from training with them. He talks about how he looked up to future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw and the process behind developing his signature pitch. Plus, Chuck asks whether he's looking forward to a future showdown with new Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami.

Chuck Garfien's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza keeps rolling with White Sox pitching prospect Tanner McDougal, who opens up about the adversity he faced in 2024 and the adjustments that fueled his resurgence in 2025. He shares what he learned during the toughest stretch of his career and how that shaped his mentality heading into camp. McDougal also dives into some lighter moments, including his first taste of Malört at SoxFest and explains how events like the club's annual spring golf outing help strengthen the bond throughout the organization. The Las Vegas native reflects on growing up in the desert, the path that led him to pro ball, and his connection to White Sox legend Frank Thomas. Plus, he names a sleeper prospect Sox fans should circle for 2026. Later, Chuck catches up with White Sox reliever Ryan Borucki, the Mundelein, Illinois native who grew up a diehard Sox fan. Borucki shows off his South Side roots by rattling off the entire 2005 lineup and talks about what it means to wear the uniform of the team he followed as a kid.

Chuck Garfien's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil, who's carving out a unique role on the staff. Vasil discusses embracing his versatility on the mound and what it meant to lead all rookie relievers in innings pitched last season. Vasil also explains why he calls himself “Batman” and shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse of rooming with catcher and close friend Kyle Teel during spring training. Vasil makes it clear why he believes this White Sox team will surprise people, pointing to the club's relentless, never-quit mentality and more.

Chuck Garfien's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza continues with a sit-down featuring White Sox left-hander Anthony Kay, who signed with the club in December after two standout seasons in Japan. Kay reflects on his time overseas, including memorable matchups against fellow White Sox newcomer Munetaka Murakami, and shares what it was like competing against him. Kay walks Chuck through his baseball journey and how it closely resembles Erick Fedde's journey, while also explaining the style of pitcher he became in Japan and how that experience should translate this season. He opens up about adjusting back to the 5-man rotation, offers Chuck a quick Japanese language lesson, reacts to Murakami calling him “nasty,” and gives his early impressions of what kind of player Sox fans can expect Murakami to be.

Chuck Garfien's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza kicks off with Sox Machine and Baseball America writer James Fegan joining the show for a wide-ranging conversation centered on one big question: what should fans realistically expect from the White Sox this season? From overall confidence in the direction of the club to how the roster might shake out, the discussion covers it all. The conversation rolls through big-picture topics, including the offseason move that mattered most, what to expect from Munetaka Murakami, which player could make a major leap, and a few under-the-radar names. They also look ahead to positional battles, Lenyn Sosa's Opening Day role, who might debut first between Hagen Smith and Noah Schultz, and whether the Sox can win 80 or more games. It's a thoughtful check-in on where the Sox stand—and where they could be headed.

Chuck Garfien brings you the best moments from SoxFest 2026. The episode opens with highlights from a fan-packed panel including Senior Vice President and General Manager Chris Getz alongside manager Will Venable, as they share insight into the team's direction and what they're building toward this season. Chuck also goes one-on-one with several players making headlines. Catcher Kyle Teel discusses mixing baseball and music after playing guitar live in front of the SoxFest crowd and looks ahead to his sophomore season, while infielder Miguel Vargas brings up the texts he received from Luis Robert Jr. after the trade to the Mets. The episode wraps up with young star Colson Montgomery, who talks about building on his strong rookie year and what he's focused on next.

Chuck Garfien is joined by his TV partner and 2005 World Series Champion Ozzie Guillen for a conversation about the direction of the White Sox and why Ozzie believes this team will be more exciting to watch in 2026. Guillen also explains why he has confidence in the Sox starting rotation heading into the season. The discussion shifts to roster moves and player evaluations, including Ozzie's reaction to the Luis Robert Jr. trade and his inside take on Luisangel Acuña, Everson Pereira, and Munetaka Murakami. Ozzie also weighs in on comments from Francisco Lindor, the addition of relief pitcher Seranthony Domínguez, and whether this White Sox team is positioned to take a real step forward this upcoming season.

Chuck Garfien is joined by White Sox field reporter Connor McKnight to break down one of the biggest moves of the offseason, Luis Robert Jr. being dealt to the New York Mets and what it means for the organization moving forward. The duo also digs into Chris Getz's role in reshaping the roster and the return headlined by Luisangel Acuña. From there, the conversation turns to the ripple effects of the trade, expectations for Robert in 2026, how the White Sox might deploy their new financial flexibility, and where the front office could look to invest as the next phase of the rebuild takes shape.

Chuck Garfien welcomes MLB Network host and play-by-play announcer Matt Vasgersian to the show. The two dive into sports broadcasting, with Vasgersian opening up about his long-standing affinity for the legendary Ken "The Hawk" Harrelson. The conversation also explores Vasgersian's connection to the White Sox, tracing it back to his Athletics fandom and highlighting some of his favorite players to ever wear the uniform. Along the way, he pays tribute to the late Wilbur Wood, reflects on baseball figures he wishes he could have interviewed, and shares his perspective on the direction of the White Sox as an organization.

White Sox fans take the mic as Chuck Garfien is joined by Sox reporter Brooke Fletcher to break down the boldest, wildest hot takes heading into the 2026 season. From extreme optimism to full-on doom scenarios, the duo reacts to fan predictions ranging from AL MVP chatter to postseason aspirations—and everything in between. The conversation also touches on belief in bounce-back and breakthrough storylines, including whether Luis Robert Jr. can rediscover his All-Star form and reestablish himself as a franchise centerpiece. Plus, fans weigh in on the idea that a new wave of Sox rookies could debut in 2026 and make an immediate impact, and much more.

Chuck Garfien is joined by former #1 pick and current White Sox Special Assistant of Player Development Phil Nevin for a wide-ranging conversation on his baseball career and his role with the White Sox. Nevin looks back on his playing days, reflects on what it was like sharing a clubhouse with Tony Gwynn, and offers his perspective on Shohei Ohtani. He also discusses being in the mix for the White Sox managerial job before the team hired Will Venable and explains his current focus on player development within the organization. The conversation then turns to the White Sox pipeline and the people shaping it. Nevin shares his thoughts on top prospect Roch Cholowsky and his relationship with UCLA head coach John Savage, along with the type of people the White Sox are prioritizing as they build the organization. Plus, he breaks down what Sam Antonacci brings to the system, how close Braden Montgomery is to the big leagues, and his take on Chad Pinder joining the organization in 2025.

On this week's episode, Chuck Garfien sits down with Yuri Karasawa of World Baseball Network and Yakyu Cosmopolitan for an in-depth conversation about Japanese superstar Munetaka Murakami and what he brings to the White Sox. Karasawa provides context on baseball in Japan and the NPB landscape, while breaking down Murakami's fame, reputation, and historic 2022 season that cemented him as one of the game's most feared sluggers. The discussion dives into why Murakami chose the White Sox, whether his signing came as a surprise, and what expectations should look like as he transitions from NPB to MLB pitching. Chuck and Yuri also examine Murakami's plate discipline, defensive versatility at first and third base, and his jaw-dropping power — including the moon shots that made him a household name in Japan. Plus, they look back at Murakami's injury-riddled 2025 season, his personality and desire to connect with fans by learning English, and how his skill set is expected to translate at the major league level.

On this week's episode, Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox Director of International Scouting David Keller to go behind the scenes of the signing of Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami. Keller breaks down what went into landing Murakami and why his special power made him a must-have target. The conversation also dives into who Murakami is as a player and beyond the box score — the type of person and teammate he's expected to be in the clubhouse — and how his skill set translates to the major leagues. Plus, Keller shares how the White Sox are continuing to strengthen their international scouting footprint.

On a jam-packed episode, Chuck Garfien brings you inside one of the White Sox's biggest offseason moves. He opens with GM Chris Getz, who takes us behind the scenes of the signing of Murakami, what he brings to the lineup and the fan base, the potential international impact, and why the Sox are confident they can help him adjust to the majors and take his hitting to another level. Then it's Murakami himself, explaining why he chose the White Sox, the type of hitter he wants to become in Major League Baseball, and offering his own scouting report on fellow Japanese import Anthony Kay, who also joined the Sox this offseason.

Chuck Garfien is joined by UCLA head baseball coach John Savage for an in-depth conversation about one of the White Sox' top draft prospects, Roch Cholowsky. Savage explains why Roch chose UCLA, details the impact he had on the Bruins' turnaround, and projects what kind of major leaguer Roch could become. They also discuss Roch's mindset as a potential No. 1 overall pick, what Savage would tell White Sox scouts evaluating him, and share a memorable Roch story from his time at UCLA. Plus, Chuck and Savage react to Roch's viral moment consoling the bat boy after UCLA's College World Series elimination and reveal which big-league pitcher Roch is most eager to face when he reaches the majors.

On the final day of the Winter Meetings, Chuck Garfien closes things out with a loaded lineup of conversations. He starts with White Sox GM Chris Getz, diving into the outfielder market and how the Sox are approaching it. Chuck then chats with MLB.com draft expert Jonathan Mayo for an early read on the 2026 draft class. MassLive.com's Sean McAdam stops by to give the latest on the Red Sox's interest in White Sox catcher Kyle Teel. And wrapping things up, Chuck checks in with agent Scott Boras to get his perspective on Luis Robert Jr.'s 2026 outlook.

The White Sox win the Draft Lottery! Chuck Garfien reacts to the White Sox landing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft. He speaks with GM Chris Getz about how securing the top selection reshapes the organization's long-term plans. Chuck then catches up with director of scouting Mike Shirley, who breaks down what this opportunity means for their draft strategy and the type of player the Sox could target. Finally, Chuck sits down with Hall of Famer and former No. 1 overall pick Harold Baines, the White Sox's draft lottery representative, who shares his own draft experience. 

Chuck Garfien checks in from the MLB Winter Meetings in Orlando, where he's on site all week getting the inside scoop on the White Sox. He asks GM Chris Getz for the latest on Luis Robert Jr. Chuck then catches up with manager Will Venable, who shares what the young and confident Sox are telling him about their expectations for next season and how he's looking to grow following his first year at the helm. Finally, Chuck chats with '05 World Series champion and “Foul Territory” co-host A.J. Pierzynski, who gives his thoughts on why the White Sox should pursue slugger Kyle Schwarber.

Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB.com's White Sox beat writer Scott Merkin for a deep dive into the biggest storylines of the Sox offseason. Chuck puts Scott on the spot with 10 Burning Questions—from what the White Sox might do at the Winter Meetings to who will be playing first base, third base, and right field on Opening Day 2026. They discuss potential additions to the rotation, whether the Sox will pursue a closer, which players could be on the trade block, and if Luis Robert Jr. is on the move, who would take his spot in center field. Chuck and Scott also look at how the new pitching and hitting coaches could shape the team's future and evaluate the chances the Sox can push toward a .500 season in 2026.  

Chuck Garfien is joined by White Sox reporters Connor McKnight and Brooke Fletcher for a wide-ranging look at the White Sox offseason, breaking down the team's latest roster moves following the non-tender deadline. They dig into which free agents could fit the Sox's needs, from infield help to pitching, and what type of veteran leader might make sense. The trio makes bold predictions and discusses the possibility of trades involving Luis Robert Jr., Kyle Teel, or Edgar Quero. Chuck and company also try to predict where the White Sox will be selecting in the MLB Draft with a little help from Tankathon.

Chuck Garfien sits down with rising White Sox prospect Sam Antonacci, who capped off a strong season with an impressive showing in the Arizona Fall League. Antonacci discusses his development, the work he's focusing on this offseason, and what he learned playing alongside several other Sox prospects. He also reflects on his path from community college to the White Sox system, his competitive style, and why he takes pride in doing the little things well.

Chuck Garfien sits down with new White Sox hitting coach Derek Shomon to discuss his approach and what he brings to the White Sox lineup. Shomon talks about building relentless at-bats, practicing game-like situations, and preparing hitters for any situation at the plate. He shares takeaways from Minnesota and Miami, thoughts on Luis Robert Jr. and Colson Montgomery, and building on the success of Lenyn Sosa. Shomon also reflects on returning home and what it means to be closer to family.

New White Sox pitching coach Zach Bove joins Chuck Garfien for his first conversation since taking the job. Bove lays out his individual approach to pitcher development, what he learned from Kansas City's rise, and how he plans to make the Sox better on the mound. He explains his thoughts on using openers, why a designated closer isn't mandatory, and how he'll approach the 2026 rotation.

White Sox prospect George Wolkow joins Chuck Garfien in studio to look back on his 2025 season. He discusses how discipline and swing decisions are the focus this offseason, what he learned from watching Colson Montgomery's journey, and how meeting with Bo Jackson fueled his outlook. Also, the story behind his one-handed RBI, being mic'd up for Top Prospects, and why he believes mindset is the key on the road to Chicago.

White Sox pitching prospect stand-out Hagen Smith joins Chuck Garfien from the Arizona Fall League to reflect on his 2025 season. They discuss early arm soreness, mechanical tweaks, and dominating in the Birmingham Barons' championship run. Smith opens up on what he learned through adversity, why slowing things down changed everything, and how the Arizona Fall League is helping shape his approach for 2026.

Chuck Garfien is joined by the radio voice of the White Sox Len Kasper for a conversation about the state of the team, the art of broadcasting, and their love of music. They talk about the impact of Will Venable, why there's confidence in the direction of the club, and what growth looks like on and off the field. Len also talks how he prepares for a broadcast and his connection between music and baseball.

On the latest episode of The White Sox Podcast, Chuck Garfien chats with 2025 minor league standout Shane Murphy. The left-handed pitcher explains how he posted a 1.68 ERA while sitting at 89 mph in an era dominated by fireballers. Shane details his focus on command, sequencing, and adjusting to hitters' approaches, while also reflecting on his recovery from Tommy John surgery, navigating COVID setbacks, and his readiness to shine under the major league lights.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox Director of Player Personnel Gene Watson for a deep dive on the Sox organization. We discuss how scouting and player development are aligned, the impact of the rookie core, and what's next. Gene revisits the Garrett Crochet trade one year later, the Rule 5 success stories of Shane Smith & Mike Vasil, and how the Sox identify “winning players". We also hit the Arizona Fall League, draft-lottery prep, and building a sustainable pipeline to the South Side.

Chuck Garfien, Brooke Fletcher, and Connor McKnight break down a whirlwind start to the White Sox offseason: why multiple coaching changes were announced right after the finale, what that says about the team's new direction, and why the “real” 2025 Sox were the second-half version that showed more fight and promise. They revisit their spring predictions with receipts, spotlight surprising stat leaders like Miguel Vargas, Lenyn Sosa, and Colson Montgomery, and weigh in on the Luis Robert Jr. decision, clubhouse chemistry, and what's next for a young core that finally looks connected.

It's the final week of the White Sox season, but The White Sox Podcast rolls on. Chuck answers fan questions on payroll, offseason spending, adding power, rookie impact, SoxFest rumors, and even a possible Dylan Cease reunion. Plus, a way-too-early outlook for 2026 and why the rebuild is heading in the right direction. 

Former White Sox Gavin Sheets returns to the Southside in a Padres uniform. Sheets opens up about the highs of the 2021 division title, the stunning collapse that followed, and what really went wrong inside the clubhouse. He also explains why a change of scenery helped both him and Andrew Vaughn thrive elsewhere, shares his excitement for the White Sox under Will Venable, and the special reunion with Jose Abreu.

White Sox manager Will Venable joins Chuck Garfien for an in-depth conversation about his first season in charge. From the challenges of managing to the progress made on and off the field, Venable shares his perspective on the year and his vision for the future of the White Sox.

Chuck Garfien sits down with second-round pick and lifelong White Sox fan Jaden Fauske. The Chicagoland native opens up about growing up in a Sox household, winning state titles in both baseball and football at Nazareth Academy, and what it means to wear the jersey of the team he always dreamed of playing for. Fauske shares stories about learning from Jim Thome, competing under pressure, and why his Cubs fandom is nonexistent

White Sox first-round draft pick Billy Carlson joins Chuck Garfien for his first in-depth conversation in Chicago. The Southern California shortstop opens up about his love for the game, why defense at shortstop became his passion, and the leadership style he brings to the field. Carlson also shares his draft-day experience, the excitement of joining a rebuilding White Sox organization, and the text he received from Colson Montgomery that meant the world to him.

After a tough first-half, the White Sox had been showing major signs of improvement. Chuck Garfien welcomes MLB Network's Dan Plesac to break down a 17-game stretch that included seven comeback wins and one of the league's hottest offenses since the All-Star break. They discuss the spark from rookies, Colson Montgomery's breakout, and how Will Venable's message has shifted the team's approach. Plesac explains why the Sox feel like a “sleeping giant,” what September means for 2026, and why the worst may finally be behind them.

Chuck Garfien goes inside the Birmingham Barons with manager Guillermo Quiroz, who explains how culture, chemistry, and an old-school style of baseball have fueled one of the league's best teams. From pressure offense to pitching development and postseason goals, hear how the Barons' formula is building wins and shaping the White Sox future.

White Sox rookie catcher Kyle Teel joins Chuck Garfien on the White Sox Podcast for a conversation about his first season in the big leagues. Teel opens up about his energy on the field, the challenge of leading a pitching staff while developing as a hitter, and the culture being built inside the clubhouse. He also talks about the chess battles with teammates, how momentum shapes a season, and what excites him about the Sox's future. Plus, Ozzie Guillen pops in with a surprise appearance and a few words of wisdom for the rookie.

White Sox GM Chris Getz sits down with Chuck Garfien on the latest White Sox Podcast. He explains Colson Montgomery's turnaround, gives insight into Luis Robert Jr.'s hamstring issue and future with the club, and shares his perspective on Will Venable's first year as manager. Getz also addresses the progress of the rookies, the challenge of all those close losses, and what kind of moves the Sox might make this offseason.

White Sox broadcaster Steve Stone joins Chuck Garfien on The White Sox Talk Podcast to break down the state of the team and where things go from here. Stone shares his perspective on the rookie surge led by Colson Montgomery, Edgar Quero, and Kyle Teel, and why the White Sox finally have the offensive foundation they've been missing. He explains how a strong bullpen could quickly turn close losses into wins, what to do with Luis Robert Jr. this offseason, and the type of free agent he'd like to see added to the roster. Plus, Stone talks MLB expansion and why Orlando could be the league's next big market.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred raised eyebrows by mentioning geographic realignment as part of future expansion. Chuck Garfien and MLB Network Radio's Mike Ferrin dig into what that could mean for baseball — from the Cubs and White Sox sharing a division, to Yankees–Mets and Dodgers–Angels rivalries heating up. Chuck even unveils his own realignment plan, while Mike explains how it could boost rivalries, cut travel, and reshape the postseason.