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.
Hello, Noah Schultz
Last Monday at 6:59 AM
[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...Reports from 2026 Spring Training
02/16/2026
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[Intro] Sounds from camp as Will Venable shares what he told the troops in the full squad meeting, why Mike Vasil believes the Chicago White Sox will be good this season, and why trying out for the Sox is a dream come true for Ryan Borucki. [7:05] Fantasy Baseball Leagues are open for Sox Machine subscribers. Please visit soxmachine.com for more information. [8:34] Munetaka Murakami Mania: how the new White Sox slugger is looking in camp, and if he's a 40 home run hitter, does that change the win/loss projections much? [23:36] Welcome back, Erick Fedde. What role does...2026 White Sox Prospects with Keith Law
02/11/2026
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[Intro] The show starts with Keith Law and Jim Margalus revisiting their conversation last year about Colson Montgomery. How things have changed, how some things haven't changed, and what it means heading into the 2026 season.[6:51] Law's thoughts about Braden Montgomery and what area of his game needs the most improvement.[9:14] The White Sox recent high school picks are showing promise. With Caleb Bonemer, have they figured out how to help teenagers develop? If so, what does that mean for 2025 first-rounder Billy Carlson?[15:52] After an impressive Arizona Fall League, is Hagen Smith back?[17:40] Why Law needs to see...2026 Spring Training Preview
02/09/2026
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[Intro] Austin Hays signing is official. Audio from the signing press conference as White Sox GM Chris Getz explains the fit and Hays shares why he picked the White Sox. [13:37] 2026 Spring Training Preview: Which White Sox storylines are we following this spring? Munetaka Murakami will command the most attention while the outfield still needs sorting out. How will Colson Montgomery follow up his rookie season? Who will fill out the starting rotation? [37:34] Prospect Week wraps up with Jim and James sharing how they feel about the farm system overall.Chris Getz wheelin' and dealin' at 2026 SoxFest
02/02/2026
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[Intro] Chris Getz pulled off a trade on Sunday as the Chicago White Sox acquired two right-handed pitchers in Jordan Hicks and David Sandlin. Getz shared how long he was working on this trade, the role Hicks will play with the White Sox, and how excited he is about adding another young pitcher like Sandlin. [13:18] Jim, James, and Josh break down the trade. Why Sandlin is the big get, how the White Sox bullpen improves, and how refreshing it is to see the front office finally take on bad money for a chance to land a better...Chris Getz and Will Venable set the 2026 SoxFest stage
01/30/2026
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[Intro] Kicking off 2026 SoxFest at the Louis L. Valentine Boys & Girls Club, Chicago White Sox GM Chris Getz speaks with the media about his expectations for the upcoming season and how he's not done shopping yet. Chris Getz and Will Venable set the 2026 SoxFest stage.[9:30] White Sox manager Will Venable shares his plan to help the ballclub, and himself, improve upon their performance from last season. [13:18] Top 100 prospect lists were released by MLB.com, Baseball America, ESPN, and The Athletic. How are the White Sox faring in these lists? Where are certain prospects high on a list...Hello, Seranthony Dominguez and State of the White Sox Farm System
01/27/2026
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[Intro] Catching up on White Sox news, as Munetaka Murakami is officially on Team Japan, and Roger Bossard is a Hall of Famer. [4:09] State of the White Sox Farm System: With the recent Player Development Staff announcement, hear from White Sox director Paul Janish's thoughts about the current farm system. Plus, new Charlotte Knights manager Chad Pinder shares what his goals are as he takes over for Sergio Santos. [20:15] Hello, Seranthony Dominguez: So the White Sox did spend some money by bringing in a proven high-leverage reliever in Seranthony Dominguez. Was this the best use of available...Goodbye, Luis Robert Jr.
01/22/2026
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[Intro] Chicago White Sox general manager Chris Getz explains the rationale of trading Luis Robert Jr. to the New York Mets. James Fegan asks Getz about Luisangel Acuna's expected playing time and what's next for Getz this offseason. [11:47] What is Luis Robert Jr.'s lasting legacy with the White Sox? The potential was real and flashed on several occasions, but is it all right to feel that the whole experience was lacking? [24:16] Why did this trade happen now? That's the question former White Sox catcher AJ Pierzynski is asking on his show, Foul Territory. Josh, James, and...Remembering Wilbur Wood and Unexpected Luis Robert Jr. News
01/21/2026
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[Intro] For the first time in 13 seasons of podcasting about the Chicago White Sox, the intro had to be re-recorded as Luis Robert Jr. trade news broke. There's also site and podcast news, including White Sox Wake Up Call's return for the 2026 season, the Sox Machine 20th Anniversary Party, and our upcoming coverage plans. [8:13] Our feature on remembering Wilbur Wood, who passed away at age 84. His excellence in 1971 and 1972 will be hard to beat for White Sox pitchers. Current TV analyst Steve Stone shares his memories of playing alongside Wood and what he learned from him. [15:06] Baseball...2026 International Signing Recap and Changes Coming to Kauffman Stadium
01/16/2026
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[Intro] Recapping the Chicago White Sox 2026 International Prospect signings with David Keller. Scouting reports on top signees Fernando Graterol and Sebastian Romero. Beat reporter James Fegan asks Keller how this year's class came together, how the new Dominican Republic facility played a role, and how they used advanced tech to help scout.[10:52] The Kansas City Royals are bringing in the fences at Kauffman Stadium. Guest Max Rieper of Royals Review joins the show to explain why these changes are happening, which Royals hitters could see a boost, and the future of Kauffman Stadium.[22:29] Jim Margalus joins Josh...Meeting Sean Newcomb and Catching Up with Edgar Quero
01/12/2026
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[Intro] Audio from Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable, who chimes in on Munetaka Murakami, Sean Newcomb, and how he wants to see the starting pitchers compete for the final spots in the rotation.[7:37] Sean Newcomb meets with the White Sox media since signing a one-year contract. Newcomb shares why he picked the White Sox, how Mike Vasil and Shane Smith helped with recruitment, and why the sinker is his key pitch.[12:05] James Fegan joins the show to discuss his recent feature on Edgar Quero. More details on how Quero is aiming to improve hitting for more...2026 FanGraphs Top Chicago White Sox Prospects
01/07/2026
Guest: Eric Longenhagen, FanGraphs
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[Intro] We are back for our 13th season podcasting the Chicago White Sox. Catching up on news from the holidays, including Jared Kelenic signing a minor league contract, Danny Mendick is now a manager, SoxFest Live update, and Jason Benetti being approached for NBC's top MLB gig.[4:25] Eric Longenhagen joins Josh Nelson and James Fegan to discuss FanGraphs top prospect list for the Chicago White Sox. Starting with the signing of Munetaka Murakami.[10:52] The White Sox have six prospects with a Future Value grade of 50. Does that mean the farm system...White Sox Top 10 2025 Moments
12/30/2025
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[Intro] With the holidays wrapping up, the Sox Machine crew share what they got for Christmas. [8:50] Addressing the Yoan Moncada rumors, and how much help the White Sox need in the outfield. [17:44] Our personal favorite 2025 moments[26:15] Using page views, social media engagement, and podcast listens, we compiled the Top 10 White Sox moments for Sox Machine. Starting with #10 Moment: Andrew Vaughn getting traded. [31:09] #9 Moment: Kyle Teel getting called up[35:48] #8 Moment: Grant Taylor getting called up[38:08] #7 Moment: Adrian Houser getting traded[41:46] #6 Moment: Luis Robert Jr. doesn't get traded[44:20] #5 Moment: White Sox select Billy Carlson in the first round[46:37] #4 Moment...White Sox staying busy through the Christmas season
12/25/2025
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[Intro] Highlights from Munetaka Murakami's introduction press conference. Why Chris Getz feels this signing continues the momentum his ballclub has been building since the second half. [10:16] Hello, Sean Newcomb. The White Sox signed the veteran left-handed pitcher open to the idea of having him start games in 2026. A breakdown of how Newcomb's starts went in 2025. [13:15] A thought process of a potential trade offer from Cincinnati to lure Luis Robert Jr. away. [19:48] More new faces join the White Sox coaching staff as Chris Denorfia shares what his responsibilities as Field Coordinator entail.Hello, Munetaka Murakami
12/22/2025
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[Intro] Our initial reaction to the Chicago White Sox signing Munetaka Murakami[16:24] What Murakami is bringing to the White Sox: big power and a healthy walk rate[20:16] What are Murakami's red flags? Contact rate is eye-opening that drives a high strikeout rate. Is it possible for the White Sox hitting team can help Murakami make adjustments before arriving to Spring Training? [29:54] 2026 Steamer projections for Murakami. If he meets those projections, is that a good enough outcome for the White Sox?[33:42] What does the Murakami signing mean for Lenyn Sosa, Curtis Mead, and Bryan Ramos?[41:51] Now with Murakami...99 Days Until 2026 Opening Day
12/17/2025
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[Intro] A behind the scenes retelling of what it was like being at the MLB Draft Lottery and speaking with White Sox personal afterwards.[10:38] A week after the Winter Meetings, and not much has changed for the White Sox. [14:06] A deep dive into the White Sox new Rule 5 draftees: Jedixson Paez and Alexander Alberto. What is their arsenal and how could the White Sox use them in 2026. Do they have enough staying power to last at least 90 days, or are they at risk of being returned to sender? [32:20] It's been a pretty quiet offseason for the White...2025 Winter Meetings Day 4: White Sox on the Clock
12/10/2025
Chicago White Sox will have the #1 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft. Hear from Chris Getz and Mike Shirley's reaction to the news. Sox Machine's Josh Nelson lays out the upcoming outlook for the White Sox draft efforts.
2025 Winter Meetings Day 3: Rule 5 Draft Preview with JJ Cooper
12/09/2025
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[Intro] Baseball America's JJ Cooper joins Jim Margalus to share how the MLB Draft Lottery works, and previews the upcoming Rule 5 Draft, which the White Sox should be making another selection on Wednesday.[18:40] Anthony Kay is officially with the Chicago White Sox, and he shared with James Fegan why he picked the organization in his return to the majors. [21:35] Courtney Finnicum of Baseball Isn't Boring talks about her first Winter Meetings experience and latest gossip with the Kyle Teel trade interest from Boston.2025 Winter Meetings Day 2: Chris Getz sticking with the process
12/09/2025
Guest: Mike Ferrin, MLB Network Radio
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[Intro] Audio from Chris Getz who holds court in Monday's Winter Meetings. He talks about maintaining the current course, if he believes there's a contending core being built with players currently in hand, and what the White Sox have achieved in his three years as general manager.[6:16] Mike Ferrin of MLB Network Radio joins the show again to talk about the current Winter Meetings vibes. If there is a big move to be made, why it could be the Washington Nationals making big trade news. What Ferrin thinks about...2025 Winter Meetings Day 1: What we hope to learn from Chris Getz and Will Venable
12/08/2025
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[Intro] The Sox Machine House in Orlando is setup and ready to cover the Winter Meetings. Sharing what we are hoping to learn from Chris Getz and Will Venable in their media scrums. [9:27] Jeff Kent is going to the Hall of Fame, but with Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens missing the voting cutoff again, will they ever make it? [17:55] Around MLB: Pittsburgh Pirates offer Kyle Schwarber a four-year contract, what are the Minnesota Twins trying to accomplish, and the Chicago Cubs kicking the tires on a couple of third base free agents.2025 Winter Meetings Preview
12/05/2025
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[Intro] Hello, Anthony Kay. The Chicago White Sox add to their starting rotation by signing Kay to a two year, $12 million contract ($5 million in 2026, $5 million in 2027, $2 million buyout or $10 million mutual option in 2028). What should White Sox fans expect from Kay, and how much risk does this signing carry? [15:57] 2025 Winter Meetings Preview: It appears the biggest storyline for the White Sox in Orlando is Luis Robert Jr. Could he be traded? Does it make sense to trade him now? [31:23] Revisiting the White Sox shopping list and guessing how many items they check off next week. [35:55] Who are...White Sox Old Friends Finding New Homes
12/01/2025
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[Intro] Dylan Cease signs with the Toronto Blue Jays for a seven year, $210 million contract. Our thoughts about the new deal for an old friend of the White Sox, and a look at how well ex-Aces for the franchise have fared after being traded. [19:18] Ethan Katz is joining the Houston Astros coaching staff. Why he's still well received around MLB. [24:16] With Bo Jackson turning 63 years old, it got Josh Nelson thinking about how he was too young to appreciate his stardom. If possible, he would travel back in time to see Jackson in his prime athletic dominance...Sox Machine on the Radio: James Fegan with Inside The Clubhouse and White Sox Weekly
11/30/2025
Date: 11/29/2025
Sox Machine's James Fegan joins Inside The Clubhouse on 670 AM the Score, and then White Sox Weekly on ESPN 1000 AM.
Chicago White Sox 2026 ZiPS Projections with Dan Szymborski
11/26/2025
Guest: Dan Szymborski, FanGraphs
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[Intro] Dan Szymborski of FanGraphs.com joins the podcast to review the 2026 ZiPS projections. Where does ZiPS seeing the most improvement for the White Sox? What metric will be key for Colson Montgomery to make another leap forward in his development? Which position group needs the most help this offseason? [31:08] Jim Margalus and James Fegan join the show. Starting with the White Sox hiring new first base coach, Jose Leger.[39:53] Our reactions to the 2026 ZiPS projections. [44:03] A lot of Sam Antonacci love in the last couple of episodes. Is it too...Recapping 2025 Arizona Fall League with Jim Callis
11/24/2025
Guest: Jim Callis, MLB.com
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[Intro] Recap of recent MLB transactions as the White Sox re-sign Derek Hill, but let Mike Tauchman, Tim Elko, and Cam Booser go.[3:42] One of the best friends of the show, Jim Callis of MLB.com joins to recap the Arizona Fall League.[6:53] How this year's AFL prospects stack with previous seasons[9:40] Detroit's top prospect Kevin McGonigle dominated the AFL, and why he's a name White Sox fans should know[14:09] Braden Montgomery was the second ranked prospect from AFL action, and Callis believes he's a future core piece of the...White Sox turn in busy week after 40-man deadline
11/21/2025
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[Intro] The Chicago White Sox added Tanner McDougal and Duncan Davitt to their 40-man roster this week, and then made two additional trades. Audio from White Sox GM Chris Getz explaining the rationale of his decision-making, and Tanner McDougal expressing his excitement in being one step closer to accomplishing his dream. [12:00] James Fegan and Jim Margalus join the show to discuss if there were any surprises with the 40-man decision-making[16:43] First trade: White Sox acquiring LHP Chris Murphy - does he replace Fraser Ellard?[18:52] Speaking of Ellard's retirement, where does that sudden decision rank among unexpected White...
