Will Venable: AL Manager of the Year and the Chicago White Sox’s Turnaround

Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas views manager Will Venable as a role model. Vargas stated during the American League Division Series that Venable’s influence has been significant, not only in baseball but also in his personal life. These connections contributed to the success of the 2026 White Sox and are why Venable received the AL Manager of the Year award.

White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery was seen talking with Venable before a game against the Braves in June 2026. Venable received 111 points and 15 first-place votes. Kevin Cash of the Tampa Bay Rays came second with 98 points and 12 first-place votes. Chad Tracy of the Boston Red Sox finished third with 47 points and three first-place votes.

Venable joins a list of past Sox managers to earn this honor, including Ozzie Guillén in 2005 and Tony La Russa in 1983. In his second season, Venable led the Sox to an 84-78 record and their first playoff appearance since 2021. These 84 victories set a major-league record for a team that experienced three consecutive 100-loss seasons.

“There are incredible stories this year,” Venable said in September. “Everyone on the team contributed uniquely. The willingness to try different approaches and maintain a positive environment was remarkable. I feel fortunate to have experienced this journey.”

The Sox are now part of a select group, including the 2024 Kansas City Royals and 2020 Miami Marlins, who reached the playoffs after a 100-loss season. Starting pitcher Sean Burke emphasized Venable’s effective communication and leadership. Burke highlighted Venable’s ability to let players develop their team identity without imposing a strict direction.

Offensively, the Sox led the AL in runs (776) and walks (589). They also ranked third in home runs (211), OPS (.726), and slugging (.406). Venable frequently adjusted lineups for optimal results. On the mound, the Sox bullpen set a franchise record with 766 innings pitched.

The team contended for the AL Central title, finishing just one game behind the Cleveland Guardians. Over two seasons, the Sox improved significantly, winning 41 games in 2024 and then 60 in 2025. Their climb to 84 wins in 2026 marks Venable as one of only three major-league managers to achieve an increase of 19 or more wins in consecutive seasons. This excludes seasons affected by COVID or strikes.

General Manager Chris Getz praised Venable’s management style, noting his evidence-based approach and strong communication skills. Venable’s consistent leadership allowed the clubhouse culture to flourish.