A complete 180
Two years ago, the White Sox were statistically one of the worst teams in MLB history, racking up 121 losses. Now? They are lowkey on a tear, sitting just five wins away from the World Series. After a huge Game 2 playoff victory against the Cleveland Guardians, the vibes in the clubhouse are immaculate, and manager Will Venable is getting his flowers for the massive turnaround.
The Princeton playbook
Before he was managing big-league games, Venable was a standout shooting guard at Princeton. He didn't just leave that life behind—he brought the Princeton offense mindset to the diamond. Instead of the traditional "workhorse starter" approach, Venable manages his pitching staff like a basketball roster, subbing in guys for specific matchups and situational advantages. It’s all about spacing, timing, and precision.
"The spacing and timing required [in the Princeton offense] helped me as a baseball player understand the importance of every little detail," Venable said.
Why it works
It’s not just about the stats; it’s about the culture. Players like Braden Montgomery and Kyle Teel have credited Venable’s unwavering belief in them for their postseason heroics. Even after a rough 102-loss season in 2025, Venable stayed steady. He collaborated with GM Chris Getz to build a culture of trust and unselfishness.
"When you see your manager walking around with all of the confidence in the world, why would I not walk around like that too," said shortstop Colson Montgomery.
Why it matters
This is the real tea: coaching isn't just about X’s and O’s; it’s about psychology. By treating his team like a connected unit rather than a collection of individual stats, Venable has turned a broken franchise into a playoff threat. The White Sox have a chance to seal their spot in the American League Championship Series on Wednesday, and honestly? The main character energy is undeniable.
