Sox Machine Podcast (Subscriber Version)
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The Sox Machine podcast covers Chicago White Sox news, interviews, analysis, and more. Hosted by Josh Nelson, Jim Margalus, and James Fegan.This RSS feed is Ad-free and contains exclusive content only for Sox Machine subscribers.
Chicago White Sox 2026 First Half Grades
Today at 3:50 AM
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[Intro] Look how far the Chicago White Sox have come in the first half of 2026 season. Preseason projections had the team finishing with a 68-94 record. Now, the team is on pace to win 85 games. White Sox manager Will Venable shares what he would like the team to improve upon in the second half. [5:03] First group to hand out grades is the White Sox offense. A more impressive output considering missing Munetaka Murakami for most of the second quarter. [9:45] Starting pitching grades are good for the first half, but this unit still need external help to get...White Sox clinch season series vs. Kansas City
Yesterday at 7:04 AM
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[INTRO] Show Rundown[2:16] 22 runs! What it was like inside the White Sox clubhouse after their big win on Friday.[6:02] The White Sox are 16-10 against AL Central opponents. Does that start against division foes ease concerns about a late season fade?[8:53] Miguel Vargas had a big weekend and continues to impress this season. Is he now a roster fixture? [[17:34] Why getting Seranthony Dominguez back on track is a worthwhile project for the White Sox[23:55] Chase Meidroth's big weekend[26:42] Jacob Gonzalez journey to the majors is impressive[32:04] Series Preview: Baltimore OriolesWhite Sox Wild Series Win vs. Cleveland
Last Thursday at 7:29 AM
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[Intro] Recapping the Chicago White Sox wild series win over Cleveland [8:30] Was Monday night's walk-off win a Top 10 Win 2026 nominee? [11:30] Wednesday's loss to Cleveland highlights missed opportunities to capitalize on RISP [[12:20] Breaking down Chase Meidroth's slump [18:30] Game Situation: To Bunt or Not Bunt [20:08] Pitching Stars: Sean Newcomb, Sean Burke, and Anthony Kay [27:48] Cap Tips: Brooke Fletcher and White Sox Charities [30:00] Series Preview: Kansas City RoyalsWhite Sox Road Woes Continue in Detroit
06/22/2026
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[Intro] Chicago White Sox are swept by the Detroit Tigers and their road woes continue. The record away from Rate Field is now 15-25, and White Sox manager Will Venable is looking at everything to improve their play. [3:38] What should we make of the White Sox issues on the road? [10:31] Seranthony Dominguez blew another save in Sunday's loss, and Grant Taylor allowed another run. Should White Sox fans be concerned about the backend of the bullpen? [22:16] Should Davis Martin be pushed one more inning? [23:49] White Sox continue using The Opener strategy. Will Venable explains why he likes...White Sox secure winning gauntlet
06/19/2026
Guest: Matt Snyder, CBS Sports
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox secure a winning record during their two week gauntlet[3:04] The Bad from New York: Yes, there's more reasons why the White Sox need to find help with starting pitching. But Davis Martin should still be getting consideration for the All-Star team, and Sean Burke pitched a gem. [8:54] The Good from New York: Andrew Benintendi's grand slam and his latest heater, and Colson Montgomery joins rare company. [15:11] Series Preview: Detroit Tigers[17:50] In light of the New York Knicks winning the NBA championship, CBS Sports columnist Matt...White Sox Power Up
06/15/2026
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox impressively won a series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, and finish their toughest homestand of the season 4-1. What did we learn about the White Sox this week? [18:34] With starting pitching a need, the crew debate about running a Midseason Plan Project on Sox Machine. [23:05] Are opposing teams surprised how powerful the White Sox offense can be? [28:26] Chase Meidroth is having a solid season for the White Sox and continues to come up with big defensive plays. Is he overlooked on this roster? [33:54] Seranthony Dominguez didn't have the smoothest landing when closing...Hello, First Place White Sox
06/12/2026
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[Intro] Davis Martin opens the show by sharing his appreciation for White Sox fans, followed by Chris Getz addressing the media. This segment explores why now was the right time to promote Braden Montgomery, along with Getz's thoughts about the upcoming trade deadline and some injury updates.[7:58] Series Preview: Los Angeles Dodgers - keep an eye on Shohei Ohtani's injury status as he was pulled from Thursday's game due to knee inflammation.[9:36] Pinch-podcasting for Jim and James is a friend of the show, Courtney Finnicum of Baseball Isn't Boring. She shares her excitement that the White Sox...Not Sunny Outcome in Philadelphia
06/08/2026
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[Intro] Chicago White Sox lose the series in Philadelphia to start this 12-game gauntlet. But the offense showed up, and it has in Munetaka Murakami's absence. [5:05] In his last 15 games played, Tristan Peters is hitting 20-for-43. Where does his 2026 season stack up in a year of surprises? [14:08] Jacob Gonzalez first MLB home run sparked a funny TV moment for Phillies[18:01] Did Philadelphia's premier left-handed bats (Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, and Brandon Marsh) expose the White Sox left-handed pitchers?[26:42] Sean Newcomb pitched well this weekend, and has posted scoreless outings in 14 of his last 15 appearances. Should the White...Stumble in Minneapolis
06/04/2026
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[Intro] Chicago White Sox GM Chris Getz speaks with the media prior to the Minnesota Twins series. Sharing his thoughts about the team's start, will they be aggressive making additions, the MLB Draft, and Miguel Vargas[10:36] David Sandlin had a tough second start of his major league career. [14:00] Is it as simple as the defense let Davis Martin down? Or, was there a red flag in his last outing against Minnesota?[17:06] Sam Antonacci has to learn how to make better throws, but he's doing an excellent job of converting on diving catches. [19:02] On the flip side, Antonacci...What a month of May for the Chicago White Sox
06/01/2026
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[Intro] Audio from Chicago White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery, who believes this team is playoff-caliber. With a 32-27 record, is it time for us to reset expectations for this 2026 season? [15:32] If the White Sox don't finish with at least 81 wins, will this season be a disappointment? [22:00] What is the White Sox plan for first base playing time with Munetaka Murakami on the IL? [24:22] With how the offense is operating, is there enough depth to make up the absence of Murakami? Can Colson Montgomery and Miguel Vargas pick up the missing home run slack? [30:25] White Sox pitching coach...White Sox roll Twins
05/29/2026
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[Intro] Our reactions to the Chicago White Sox winning three out of four against the Minnesota Twins. How this surprising run continues to get better for everyone associated with the White Sox (Players, coaches, front office, staff, media, and fans). [8:50] Davis Martin has become the pitching staff ace that we thought Shane Smith could be. Now The Dart is in the top 10 in K-BB% for starting pitchers. [13:53] What impressed us the most about David Sandlin's MLB debut. [19:39] Jim recaps his trip to Birmingham to see the Rickwood Classic. [23:03] Munetaka Murakami joins rare White Sox company. Could he...2026 NCAA Postseason Preview with Mike Ferrin
05/28/2026
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[Intro] Mike Ferrin joins the podcast and will be calling the Atlanta Regional on ACC Network this weekend. He shares his thoughts about the bracket that did feature some questionable teams like Kentucky. [6:56] Which regional is the toughest? That might be in Lincoln, Nebraska as the #1 seed Cornhuskers will have to deal with Ole Miss and Arizona State. [10:09] It seems every year at least one top eight seed goes down in the opening weekend. Which top eight seed is at most risk of not advancing in the opening weekend? [16:32] Last year, it was Murray State. In 2023, it...Hello, Rikuu Nishida
05/26/2026
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[Intro] Audio from Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable recapping their win over the Minnesota Twins and his first impression of recent callup Rikuu Nishida.[2:58] Are we surprised Nishida was called up by the White Sox to replace Jarred Kelenic? [9:04] Nishida's energy is a great addition to the clubhouse[13:02] When Austin Hays returns, does Luisangel Acuna get cut? [13:52] With Peyton Pallette DFA'd by Cleveland, will he return to the White Sox? [15:12] Chicago White Sox also are calling up David Sandlin. What should we expect to see from Sandlin?[20:19] Munetaka Murakami leading the American League home run race[22:02...Stressful in Seattle
05/22/2026
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[Intro] Kyle Teel is on the mend for a few more weeks (month?) and it's creating more uncertainty about the catching position. [7:36] How both Drew Romo and Edgar Quero are not only struggling offensively, but also defensively behind the plate. [11:45] Who will serve as the White Sox primary catcher in the upcoming weeks?[15:01] Breaking down Wednesday's TOOTBLAN for Chase Meidroth as Drew Romo didn't lay down the bunt[20:13] Breaking down the decision for Jordan Hicks to not intentionally walk Randy Arozarena and face Rob Refsnyder [25:19] Damn, Grant Taylor looked good closing out Tuesday's win[28:10] Colson Montgomery issues...Time To Start Believing in the White Sox
05/18/2026
Sox Machine 20th Anniversary Group Tickets Saturday, August 8th - 6:10 PM CT: Cleveland Guardians vs. Chicago White Sox Ticket link: https://www.gofevo.com/event/2026SoxMachineMeetup
Tickets are $39.51 per person
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[Intro] Recap of the Chicago White Sox series win against their inner-city rival, the Chicago Cubs. Hear from Will Venable, Colson Montgomery, Edgar Quero, and Tristan Peters.[5:37] Jim Margalus joins the show, and after the White Sox finish 7-2 in this homestand, is it time to start believing in the White Sox? They have the fourth best record currently in the American League...Red Hot White Sox Ready for Crosstown Classic
05/15/2026
Sox Machine 20th Anniversary Group Tickets Saturday, August 8th - 6:10 PM CT: Cleveland Guardians vs. Chicago White Sox Ticket link: https://www.gofevo.com/event/2026SoxMachineMeetup
Tickets are $39.51 per person
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox are riding high extending their winning streak to five games, and are 22-21 after sweeping the Kansas City Royals. What do we make of the White Sox being above .500 at this stage of the 2026 season? We know why this team could stumble, but in what ways can the White Sox continue to overachieve. [10:34] Bottom of the lineup chaos[16:46...Chicago White Sox 2026 First Quarter Grades
05/11/2026
Sox Machine 20th Anniversary Group Tickets Saturday, August 8th - 6:10 PM CT: Cleveland Guardians vs. Chicago White Sox Ticket link: https://www.gofevo.com/event/2026SoxMachineMeetup
Tickets are $39.51 per person
Rundown:
[Intro] The Chicago White Sox fought hard on Sunday to comeback and win the series against Seattle. Now 19-21, one game back in the AL Central and tied for a wild card spot, does being surprise early contenders change the process in how Chris Getz and the front office approach this season? [5:37] How are the White Sox players feeling about their recent play?[8:27...2026 ZiPS Update with Dan Szymborski
05/07/2026
Sox Machine 20th Anniversary Group Tickets Saturday, August 8th - 6:10 PM CT: Cleveland Guardians vs. Chicago White Sox Ticket link: https://www.gofevo.com/event/2026SoxMachineMeetup
Tickets are $39.51 per person
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[Intro] Latest Chicago White Sox news as they optioned RHP Jordan Leasure to make room for veteran reliever Trevor Richards. Keith Law is mocking Grady Emerson first overall and why Roch Cholowsky's hitting against Big Ten pitching might be a reason, and a Sox Machine PSA with group tickets now available for purchase on August 8 which is also Ozzie Guillen's number retirement ceremony. [5:21...Missed Opportunity in Anaheim
05/07/2026
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox won on Monday in a very convincing fashion and had a chance to take the division lead. But a tough loss on Tuesday and a rough outing on Wednesday feel like a missed opportunity for this young White Sox team. Should fans still take solace in a 3-3 West Coast road trip? Is it a good sign that the team is playing well enough lately that losses are painful again after three consecutive 100-loss seasons? [16:59] Noah Schultz had a tough outing on Wednesday. In his last two starts, Schultz has walked more...Good Vibes Keep Flowing in San Diego
05/04/2026
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox win a tough series in San Diego, largely thanks to more outstanding pitching. Given recent performances and current talent, is this level of production sustainable as injuries affect depth and roster decisions? [6:09] Building off their recent success in San Diego, injuries are now impacting the White Sox's pitching depth. Given this, could the White Sox search for solutions in free agency, as they did last year with Adrian Houser? [8:51] How does anyone hit Noah Schultz? [13:22] Sean Burke's strong performance streak continues. [16:57] Unsung bullpen heroes: Tyler Davis and Bryan Hudson[25:48] Unsung bench heroes...Is the tide turning for White Sox?
05/01/2026
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox are 14-17 after sweeping the Los Angeles Angels. But they went May only 1.5 games back of Cleveland and Detroit for first place in the AL Central. They are 13-12 in their last 25 games. So how is the clubhouse feeling about this stretch? Do the White Sox believe they can stick around longer than expected? [17:33] Colson Montgomery ranks in the top three of many categories for American League shortstops. Should we pay him more attention to how he's been starting in 2026? [31:54] Davis Martin is performing like a Top 10 pitcher in MLB. Is he...2026 First Month Recap
04/27/2026
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[Intro] Audio from the press conference held by Chicago White Sox general manager Chris Getz prior to the start of the Nationals series. His early thoughts on Munetaka Murakami, and if there have been discussions about a contract extension. Plus, injury updates on Kyle Teel and Tanner McDougal. Manager Will Venable explains the rationale of the White Sox DFA'ing Reese McGuire for Drew Romo.[9:51] James Fegan joins the show to recap the news and action from Rate Field. The offense's dependence on the home run was a factor in the series loss. Also, what's wrong with Jordan...Home Runs Power Another Series Win at Arizona
04/24/2026
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[Intro] Chicago White Sox hit eight more home runs in their series win over Arizona. Is the home run offense by design for the 2026 White Sox?[7:07] Munetaka Murakami is grabbing all of the headlines for good reason. But Colson Montgomery is also heating up. Is he ready to carry the offense much like he did last year? [15:19] Miguel Vargas is also flexing some power thanks to have the league's most improved bat speed from last season. [18:00] Josh is hopping on the Everson Pereira bandwagon, but Jim is is hesitating [23:40] Why Sam Antonacci's first career home run was...Home Run Party in Sacramento
04/20/2026
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox hit eight home runs in their series win at Sacramento. Munetaka Murakami hit three of them and is starting to boom again at the plate. Is his production similar to that of Kyle Schwarber?[8:32] Everson Pereira had three doubles and made some nice defensive plays in right field. Can he lock down this outfield position?[14:47] Weird Metrics: Colson Montgomery is having way more success hitting in the day versus at night. Is this a thing for hitters preferring to hit in natural sunlight compared to under the lights?[20:27] Noah Schultz was excellent...New Faces, Same Results
04/17/2026
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox series against Tampa Bay is highlighted by the two promotions: Noah Schultz and Sam Antonacci. Hear from White Sox GM Chris Getz, manager Will Venable, Schultz, and Antonacci.[7:57] With a 6-13 record, White Sox fans are upset about how the team has started 2026. Is the front office aware that White Sox fans are losing patience? [14:15] Reviewing Noah Schultz's MLB debut. What adjustments he made midgame, and hoping to see from him this weekend against the Athletics. [20:23] Reviewing Sam Antonacci's MLB debut. Why the promotion now? How will outfield playing time work out? [29:32...Hello, Noah Schultz
04/13/2026
[Intro] Audio from Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable, shortstop Colson Montgomery, and infielder Tanner Murray recapping the weekend in Kansas City[4:51] Hello, Noah Schultz: With the big promotion, what should White Sox fans expect to see from Schultz?[20:49] Recapping the weekend in Kansas City, and the pitching staff deserves big props for bouncing back in their last 10 games. Why does this give Josh hope that the White Sox could make a run towards .500 ball? Also, why is Jim cautious, given the type of pitchers who are getting these results?[33:19] The White Sox offense is bad. No other way to...
Shane Smith Optioned and Sox Swept by Baltimore
04/09/2026
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[Intro] Audio from Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable, who explains the team's thought process of demoting Shane Smith. What he needs to work on in AAA, and the upcoming mental challenge he needs to overcome. [4:30] James Fegan and Jim Margalus join the show to discuss Smith being optioned. What is the timeline for Smith to work on his mechanics? How will the White Sox handle Smith's spot in the rotation? [13:26] Recap of the Baltimore Orioles series that saw the White Sox hitters continue to struggle with in-zone contact against fastballs. With the team starting 4-8, is...White Sox Surprise Sweep of Toronto
04/06/2026
[Intro] The Chicago White Sox pull off an impressive sweep against the Toronto Blue Jays. Audio from Davis Martin and Colson Montgomery, both of whom spoke about the bad start, but now things are starting to settle in.[6:35] James Fegan joins the show to talk about the Grant Taylor opener strategy, if Miguel Vargas is living up to his prospect hype, the adjustments Edgar Quero is making, and Ozzie Guillen getting his number retired.[27:26] Baltimore series preview[29:12] Jim Margalus joins the show to share his reports on watching the Charlotte Knights and Winston-Salem Dash, and why he feels indifferent about...
White Sox lacking momentum heading into home opener
04/02/2026
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[Intro] 1-5 Start: Len Kasper and Darrin Jackson on the radio mentioned that every team has a six-game span like this during a 162-game season. But when it feels way worse when a team starts a season like this. Do you imagine any panic within the White Sox clubhouse after this opening road trip?[5:54] Run Prevention Issues: White Sox have allowed the most runs in MLB (52; TB second at 38 runs) and staff ERA is 8.63. What are the issues White Sox are having in preventing runs?[10:23] Shane Smith: He’s not looking himself and the fastball command is pr...Dour Start to 2026
03/30/2026
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[Intro] Audio from Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable and shortstop Colson Montgomery reacting to being swept by the Milwaukee Brewers[6:30] James Fegan joins the show after spending the weekend in Milwaukee. He shares his insights from the White Sox clubhouse, including the early issues they are acknowledging that need to be addressed.[28:18] Series Preview: Miami Marlins[30:27] Paul Janish shares the development plans for Sam Antonacci, Hagen Smith, Noah Schultz, Tanner McDougal, and Billy Carlson.[37:39] Jim Margalus will be watching the Charlotte Knights up close as they visit Nashville this week. But he also shares his thoughts...2026 Predictions
03/25/2026
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[Intro] The relationship between the White Sox and Frank Thomas is so strained that a new lawsuit has been filed by the Hall of Famer. This time, it's using his likeness without permission for the new City Connect jerseys. Why this new episode is sad, and a hope for cooler heads comes sooner than later. [11:06] Special guest prediction picker is Mike Ferrin of MLB Network Radio. He shares what is the most interesting thing about the White Sox this season, his player of the year, and how many wins the White Sox will have. [16:30] Josh and Jim...2026 Preview: Bullpen
03/23/2026
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[Intro] Chicago White Sox sign old friend Reese McGuire to a one year contract and will be moving on from Korey Lee as the primary backup catcher. Josh Nelson and Jim Margalus ponder aloud why the White Sox made this move so late during spring training.[10:41] 2026 Bullpen Preview: Who are the four most important relievers? [13:44] Seranthony Dominguez preview[18:30] Sean Newcomb preview[21:37] Jordan Hicks preview[27:27] Grant Taylor preview[33:06] Jordan Leasure preview[38:10] Guesses at final three relievers to make Opening Day roster[42:11] Over/Under: 31.5 Saves for White Sox bullpen2026 Preview: Starting Pitchers
03/17/2026
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[Intro] Latest update on Mike Vasil's injury and the rumored pitcher ready to take his spot in the bullpen[5:01] Alexander Alberto placed on waivers[7:57] An open conversation about some baseball outlets looking to phase our ERA when evaluating pitchers, and instead of using newer metrics like K-BB%. [17:55] 2026 Preview: Shane Smith[27:04] 2026 Preview: Davis Martin[35:36] 2026 Preview: Anthony Kay[40:19] 2026 Preview: Erick Fedde[44:55] 2026 Preview: Sean Burke[54:37] First to majors: Noah Schultz, Hagen Smith, or Tanner McDougal2026 Preview: Catchers and Outfielders
03/13/2026
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[Intro] The impact of Kyle Teel out four to six weeks with his hamstring injury. Why the impact doesn't feel as great as previous Spring Training injuries. [10:36] World Baseball Classic enters Quarterfinals as Team USA faces Canada. After losing to Italy, and not showing the same exuberance as the other countries, should MLB'ers be used in the upcoming Olympic games in 2028? [22:01] 2026 Preview: Catcher[31:12] 2026 Preview: Left Field[39:25] 2026 Preview: Center Field[46:33] 2026 Preview: Right Field2026 Preview: Infielders
03/09/2026
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[Intro] Audio from Will Venable and Shane Smith after the Chicago White Sox announce their Opening Day starter. After Smith, how does the rest of the White Sox starting rotation stack? Also, is it OK if the White Sox give Smith extra day of rest to start 2026? [8:49] 2026 Preview: First Base and Munetaka Murakami. What would be a successful season for Murakami? Yay or Nay: Rookie of the Year honors in 2026? Over/Under: 30.5 home runs.[21:20] 2026 Preview: Second Base and Chase Meidroth What would be a successful season for Meidroth? Yay or Nay: Meidroth plays most games at 2B...New Tech in Baseball with Brian Page of Rapsodo
03/06/2026
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[Intro] Catching up on Chicago White Sox Spring Training prior to Thursday night’s game against Cleveland: examining the current outfield roster, highlighting the top hitters, and spotlighting the pitchers who are performing well at camp. [9:18] Brian Page of Rapsodo, who handles the company's MLB relationships, joins the show to talk about tech in the game of baseball. Rapsodo has been at the forefront of helping MLB teams capture numerous pitch metrics. Page breaks down which metrics MLB teams are focused on and how the technology helps pitchers with pitch design. [28:46] A deep dive into the hitting me...Watching Roch
03/02/2026
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[Intro] Sounds from camp include Will Venable, who wishes Munetaka Murakami luck in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Plus, Miguel Vargas is aiming to improve his range at third base. Colson Montgomery shares how camp feels in year two and how he's hoping to improve his first step defensively. [6:45] Sam Antonacci continues to hit big home runs. Where is this power coming from? [11:59] Edgar Quero is having a great start to spring training. If he continues hitting this well, does that make Venable's job tougher when it comes to giving playing time?[18:57] Latest injury updates[20:20] A look...Takeaways from 2026 camp
02/26/2026
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[Intro] Sounds from camp as Shane Smith shares his thoughts about the first spring outing and how the pressure feels different from last year.[6:28] This is the final weekend for WBC players before they join their respective countries' squads. Munetaka Murakami's first base defense will be something to watch as he's still getting used to the position.[14:47] Lenyn Sosa will get more reps at third base to expand his usage and find a way to keep his bat on the roster.[18:16] Noah Schultz will be making his first spring appearance. Jim Margalus shares what two things he's...White Sox Impressive Start to Spring Training
02/23/2026
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[Intro] Sounds from camp as Will Venable talks about ABS and the base coaches boxes. Chris Murphy, Mike Vasil, and Sean Burke share how their first pitching appearances went. [8:04] First impression with White Sox pitchers[12:13] First impression with White Sox hitters[15:32] First impression of Munetaka Murakami[17:36] First impression of Edgar Quero[20:33] Dark horse candidate to make 26-man roster: Tanner McDougal[31:54] Dark horse candidate to make 26-man roster: Sam Antonacci[38:06] First impression of ABS challenges[48:08] Roch Report: After another big weekend vs. ranked TCU, Roch Cholowsky has lived up to the early hype.What to expect early in 2026 Spring Training games
02/20/2026
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[Intro] Audio from Spring Training media sessions from manager Will Venable and hitting coach Derek Shomon. What impresses Shomon the most about Munetaka Murakami? Also, Everson Pereira seems to be a focus for the coaching staff early in camp.[6:50] James Fegan shares the latest intel on what to expect in the first weekend of spring training games. Jim Margalus shares what he's watching early in games against the Cubs, Athletics, and Brewers.[14:39] There's been more of a focus on Everson Pereira. Is he a priority in making the 26-man roster?[21:47] As we hear more from the pitchers...