Will Venable: the White Sox manager who used basketball tactics to transform a baseball loser

Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable has revitalized the franchise by applying basketball principles learned during his collegiate career at Princeton. Just two seasons after losing 121 games, the White Sox stand five wins away from the World Series following a 4-3 playoff victory over the Cleveland Guardians. Venable has adapted the Princeton offense's emphasis on spacing, timing, and interconnected teamwork to manage his pitching staff through precise matchups.

Venable's calm leadership and trust have bolstered players such as rookie Braden Montgomery, who hit a go-ahead double in Game 2. After enduring a 102-loss campaign in 2025, Venable guided Chicago to an 84-78 record in 2026 alongside general manager Chris Getz.