The Chicago White Sox have reportedly settled on their next manager, set to appoint Texas Rangers associate manager Will Venable as their new leader in the dugout. According to MLB.com’s Scott Merkin, the White Sox are waiting on formalities before making Venable’s hiring official, as Major League Baseball restricts non-World Series announcements during the championship.
This hire marks a significant step in Chris Getz’s overhaul of the White Sox, a process he committed to earlier this year by addressing major organizational changes in scouting, player development, and behind-the-scenes analytics. Venable’s arrival aligns well with Getz’s vision of a long-term rebuild, positioning him as the partner Getz seeks in reshaping the team’s future. The White Sox executive received praise for securing Venable, a young, rising manager candidate with prior coaching experience and notable MLB ties.
White Sox must wait until WS ends or get permission from the commissioners office to officially name Venable manager. ( possible Thursday off day if a game 6 is necessary.)
— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) October 30, 2024
After a nine-year playing career, Venable joined coaching, first with the Chicago Cubs under Theo Epstein before moving on to significant roles with the Red Sox and Rangers. Most recently, as Bruce Bochy’s right-hand man in Texas, Venable had responsibilities for spring training and scheduling, along with coaching outfielders—a background that equips him well for taking on the White Sox’s head role. Venable’s experience with the Rangers, who recently won the World Series, is expected to bring fresh insights and organizational skills to the White Sox, who are navigating through a deep rebuild and focusing heavily on player development.
While this hire adds excitement to the White Sox’s trajectory, fans likely won’t see immediate results. The White Sox have indicated they won’t be making substantial offseason roster changes, as they await the growth of prospects currently developing in the minors. Venable’s first season is expected to center on fostering player growth rather than immediate contention.
At 42, Venable joins the White Sox with a clear mandate: to build a solid foundation and instill a winning culture that could ultimately bring success back to Chicago’s South Side. This long-term vision aligns well with Getz’s approach and places Venable at the helm of an evolving organization, poised to play a crucial role in shaping the White Sox’s future.
