The Chicago White Sox are nearing the end of their search for a new manager, with reports indicating that they have chosen Will Venable, current associate manager of the Texas Rangers. According to Scott Merkin of MLB.com, Venable is expected to assume the position soon, though the official announcement might not come immediately. As the World Series progresses, the timing of the White Sox’s decision is somewhat uncertain. However, the team’s General Manager, Chris Getz, has been widely praised for his choice, given Venable’s reputation and the competitive list of candidates he surpassed for the role.
Venable’s name has been in circulation for several managerial opportunities in recent years. Known as a rising star in coaching circles, he has built a reputation as a strategic and dynamic leader. Having previously turned down offers from the Mets and Guardians, Venable waited for the right opportunity, and the White Sox position appears to align with his career aspirations. Over the past several days, sources close to the White Sox confirmed that Venable emerged as the frontrunner after a rigorous selection process. For Getz, this hire marks a significant achievement, as Venable’s background in coaching and player development is seen as an asset in the organization’s long-term goals.
In his recent role with the Texas Rangers, Venable contributed to the team’s World Series-winning season by overseeing daily schedules and guiding the outfielders. He was a key figure in the Rangers’ coaching staff, supporting manager Bruce Bochy and managing critical aspects of training and game preparation. His previous experience with the Red Sox coaching team further enhanced his skills, as he managed spring training operations—a responsibility that reflects his capacity for leadership and strategic planning. These experiences will be essential as Venable transitions to his new role with the White Sox, where he is expected to bring similar organization and a fresh perspective to the team.
Venable’s ties to Chicago are also notable, as he began his coaching journey with the Chicago Cubs, working under Theo Epstein’s leadership in the front office. With nine years of playing experience in the major leagues, Venable shares a background common to others on the White Sox staff, like Grady Sizemore, who served as interim manager and was respected for his ability to relate to players as a former player himself. Venable’s extensive coaching experience, however, gives him an edge in guiding a young team, a task Sizemore, who was also considered for the full-time role, lacked.
While Getz is hopeful that Venable can ultimately make a positive impact on the team’s performance, he has realistic expectations for the coming season. Venable joins the organization amid a lengthy rebuild, with a focus on fostering young talent rather than immediate contention. The White Sox are unlikely to make major roster changes this offseason, signaling that Venable’s first year may emphasize development rather than winning. With Getz orchestrating substantial shifts across the organization in scouting, player development, and analytics, Venable’s leadership is seen as integral to the White Sox’s ambitions for the future. At just 42, Venable represents a new generation of leadership poised to shape the team’s path forward.