The White Sox Podcast w/ Chuck Garfien

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox director of amateur scouting Mike Shirley to take fans behind the scenes of the 2026 MLB Draft, from winning the draft lottery to selecting UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky with the No. 1 overall pick. Shirley explains how the White Sox arrived at their decision, where Cholowsky could play defensively, and how close he is to the majors and shares stories from the team's draft process while breaking down other standouts from the 2026 draft class.

White Sox Director of Amateur Scouting Mike Shirley opens the podcast by discussing how the organization is approaching the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, what they're looking for, and what goes into making the decision. Then, Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo to break down the latest buzz surrounding the race between Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson, where each could fit with the White Sox, whether Jim Thome's son, Landon Thome, could be a second-round option, and more.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Sean Burke to discuss the White Sox turnaround, his growth as a pitcher, and the confidence that's fueled his strong 2026 season. Burke reflects on his MLB debut in 2024, being sent back to the minors last season, and how the team has learned how to win at the big-league level. He also shares his thoughts on All-Star teammate Miguel Vargas, the players he believes were snubbed from the All-Star Game, and Shane Smith as he works his way back toward the majors. 

Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB.com’s Anthony Castrovince to break down whether the White Sox are baseball’s biggest surprise, which team is the one to beat in the AL Central, and how the division race is shaping up as the season rolls on. They discuss the boom-or-bust nature of the trade deadline, compare this year’s White Sox-Guardians matchup to last season’s, examine the White Sox and Guardians’ young offenses, talk about the recent rise in hamate bone injuries, including José Ramírez’s and wrap up with Chuck and Anthony's predictions for this weekend’s series.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox hitting coach Derek Shomon to revisit his bold spring training prediction of a top-10 offense, discuss whether this lineup has become the "pain in the ass" offense he envisioned, and break down the 22-run outburst against the Royals and the dramatic 9th inning back-to-back homers against the Guardians. Shoman also shares insight on Tristan Peters' season, Colson Montgomery's ceiling, Randal Grichuk's impact, and the story behind the White Sox's popular "Strokin'" shirt.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk to discuss why he joined the White Sox, his role as a veteran presence and mentor on a young roster, the art of pinch-hitting, and why he believes this team still has a chance to make a run at the postseason.

White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil returns for his third monthly check-in of the season, but this time the fans take over in a special Ask Me Anything episode. Vasil shares the origin story of the famous wizard hat, discusses what Kyle Teel’s return means to the team, provides an update on his rehab, and answers everything from his exchange with Tarik Skubal and the future of the magic wand to Portillo’s orders, potential managerial aspirations, whether he sees the White Sox as a playoff team, and more.

Chuck Garfien sits down with former White Sox Rookie of the Year, All-Star, and fan favorite Ron Kittle to relive the magic of the 1983 “Winning Ugly” team that captured the AL West title. Kittle shares stories about how the White Sox found him, what made that club so special, memorable moments from the division-clinching season, and the heartbreak of the 1983 ALCS. He also looks ahead to the upcoming 1983 team reunion, reflects on the unforgettable 25-inning game in 1984, and shares his thoughts on the up-and-coming 2026 White Sox.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Brian Kenny to discuss whether the White Sox are for real and what their recent stretch against the Braves and Dodgers says about the team's progress. Brian compares the White Sox rebuild to successful turnarounds from the past, weighs their chances of winning the AL Central, and breaks down the breakout seasons of Miguel Vargas and Davis Martin. They also discuss the role of technology in hamate bone injuries, preview his upcoming conversation with Ozzie Guillén, and look back on his memorable debate with legendary White Sox announcer Ken "The Hawk" Harrelson on MLB Network.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox catcher Kyle Teel to talk about where he is in his road to recovery from a sprained lateral collateral ligament in his right knee. Kyle also tells Chuck that if he weren't playing baseball, he would be a storm chaser.

Chuck Garfien opens the mailbag and answers a wide range of questions from White Sox fans in this Ask Me Anything episode. He shares his thoughts on Braden Montgomery's future, compares the current White Sox to teams from different eras of franchise history, and identifies the South Side hitter opposing pitchers least want to face right now. Chuck also tackles a wave of trade deadline scenarios, including whether he would pursue Tarik Skubal, which impact bat he'd like to add, and the surprising All-Star he’d target in a hypothetical deal. Plus he recommends some of his favorite White Sox books, reflects on memorable pickup basketball games during his ESPN days, shares his favorite pizza, and looks back on cherished memories of Stacey King.

Chuck Garfien talks with legendary broadcaster Bob Costas to revisit iconic White Sox history, including the 1983 "Winning Ugly" team and the All-Star Game that lit up Comiskey Park that same summer. Bob also reflects on broadcasting giants Vin Scully and Harry Caray and shares his favorite memory from Later with Bob Costas: a sit-down with Paul McCartney that he calls the highlight of his career. Chuck gets Bob's thoughts on calling Bulls games at Chicago Stadium, the dynasty years with Michael Jordan, and the moment he realized he had just called a historic shot against the Utah Jazz. Plus, Bob weighs in on Ozzie Guillen, the upcoming 80s-themed game where he'll join Steve Stone in the booth, and whether this current White Sox team has a path to October.

Chuck Garfien welcomes former major leaguer and current head coach for Fort Worth Christian Rusty Greer for an inside look at one of the most talked-about names heading into the 2026 MLB draft, Grady Emerson. Greer breaks down what separates Emerson from other top prospects, the big-league players he sees in his game, and why his makeup continues to stand out just as much as the tools that have him projected near the top of the draft. Greer shares stories from Emerson’s rise, including arranging a meeting with Bobby Witt Sr. and Bobby Witt Jr., navigating a season filled with scouts and expectations, and watching Emerson thrive under pressure while posting eye-popping numbers. Chuck also asks Greer about his playing days when he was a bonafide White Sox killer. 

Tyler Davis joins the podcast to reflect on the winding path that finally led him to the major leagues at 27 years old. Davis revisits his days as a two-way standout at Sam Houston State, where he posted a 1.112 OPS in his senior season, and shares the frustration of going undrafted despite putting up huge offensive numbers. He also looks back on life in independent baseball with the Oakland Ballers and the moment everything changed when the White Sox signed him and gave him another opportunity to keep chasing the dream. Davis also shares stories from his rise through the White Sox system, including winning a championship in Birmingham alongside teammates like Rikuu Nishida and the emotions of learning he was heading to the big leagues. He relives striking out the first batter he faced in MLB, talks about navigating pressure situations with runners on base, and explains what he’s learned from tough outings this season. Plus, Davis weighs in on whether he misses hitting, how he thinks he’d fare against MLB pitching as a position player, the teammates who helped him settle in, and what he hopes people remember most about his career years down the road.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox rookie Sam Antonacci for a discussion that dives into both his personality and the style of baseball that has quickly connected him with fans on the South Side. Sam talks about life inside a clubhouse full of gamers, why he embraces an old-school mentality in today’s analytical era, and how he tries to impact games in ways beyond hitting for power. He also reflects on his first career home run that turned into an unforgettable inside-the-park moment and explains why winning means far more to him than any individual stat line. Chuck and Sam also get into the relationships that have helped shape his rookie season, from sharing a locker area with Mike Vasil to reuniting in the organization with former teammate Rikuu Nishida. Sam shares stories about the personalities inside the clubhouse, discusses growing more comfortable in left field, and talks about hitting in front of Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami in the lineup. He also opens up about the pride he feels every time he puts on a White Sox uniform and why he believes fans have embraced the edge and mentality he brings to the field.

Chuck Garfien chats with The Athletic's Dan Hayes to break down a surprisingly competitive American League Central race and why the division may be more wide open than expected, including for the Chicago White Sox. They discuss how the Cleveland Guardians continue to win despite losing one of baseball’s top closers, while the Minnesota Twins have struggled to protect leads even with strong starting pitching and one of the league’s highest-scoring offenses. Chuck also lays out what the White Sox need to do to seriously contend for the division, especially in head-to-head games against Cleveland. Chuck and Dan explore why the idea of the White Sox winning the AL Central may not sound as unrealistic as people think, including comparisons between the Sox’ current momentum and Cleveland’s 2022 run. They revisit the memorable 15-inning Twins-Guardians game from 2022, examine why Chicago now has several “Guardian-like” players on the roster, and debate which team is best positioned to finish on top when the season ends. The episode wraps up with Dan’s prediction for the eventual AL Central winner and Chuck offering some playful advice to noted Sox-killer Byron Buxton before the next White Sox-Twins series.

Chuck Garfien catches up with White Sox outfielder Derek Hill for a conversation that stretches far beyond the box score. Hill reflects on the winding path that brought him from the 2014 MLB Draft to Chicago, including the influence of his father, Orsino Hill, whose own minor league journey and years in scouting helped shape Derek’s perspective on perseverance, pressure, and staying ready through countless roster moves and DFA's. Chuck also revisits a powerful 2021 quote from Orsino about life in professional baseball. Later, Hill shares what stands out about the current White Sox clubhouse, from the chemistry between younger players and veterans to the growing buzz surrounding names like Colson Montgomery and Munetaka Murakami. He explains the mentality behind pinch-hitting success after delivering two huge pinch-hit homers already this season; discusses the challenge of quickly moving on after tough losses; and breaks down his clutch defensive play against Bobby Witt Jr. and the Royals. Plus, Derek weighs in on the Cubs-White Sox rivalry, the league-wide chatter surrounding the Sox’ surprising run, and whether this stretch of winning baseball has staying power.

Mike Vasil sits down with Chuck Garfien once again for his monthly appearance on the podcast, and the White Sox pitcher starts by sharing the latest on his injury recovery and how he’s handling his role on this team which includes a magic wand. Vasil breaks down the White Sox’ recent surge, explains why the clubhouse has turned into a “madhouse,” and discusses the energy players like Miguel Vargas, Sam Antonacci, and Chase Meidroth are bringing to the team during one of the Sox’ most exciting stretches in recent years. Vasil also reflects on a statement he made during his February appearance on the show and explains why this 2026 White Sox team believes it can compete with anyone, especially inside the division. He talks about the team’s postseason mindset, the upcoming crosstown showdown against the Cubs, the celebrations happening inside the clubhouse, and what opponents should expect when facing the White Sox right now. Plus, Chuck and Mike discuss Meidroth’s memorable homer against the Royals, late-night baseball highlight sessions with teammates, and a possible future segment featuring fan questions.

On the latest episode of The White Sox Podcast, Chuck Garfien is joined by ESPN MLB reporter Jesse Rogers to dive into the league-wide sentiment of Murakami and how numerous executives are realizing the mistakes they made in the evaluation process this offseason. Plus, what is Murakami's contractual future in Chicago and is the White Sox rebuild over? The White Sox Podcast is brought to you by Wind Creek Chicago Southland.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Munetaka Murakami’s interpreter, Kenzo Yagi, for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most unique roles in baseball. Kenzo shares how he landed the job, initially thinking the call was a prank, and how he’s built a strong connection with Murakami both on and off the field. He also walks through Murakami’s detailed game-day routine, his own background, and the confidence it took to step into such a high-profile position. The conversation offers a deeper look at Murakami’s personality, from the types of questions he enjoys to his thoughts on teammates and the organization, along with his awareness of the growing “Murakami Mania.” Kenzo also reflects on Murakami’s experience adjusting to Chicago, learning English, and memorable moments like spring training interactions and Ozzie Guillen’s introduction to the duo. They close by sharing one story that’s stood out the most so far and what it’s been like for Kenzo to be part of Murakami’s journey.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Japan-based reporter Yuri Karasawa of JapanBall and WorldBaseball.com to get a firsthand look at “Murakami Mania” from overseas. They dive into the reaction across Japan, whether White Sox gear is popping up more, and if even seasoned observers are surprised by Murakami leading the league in home runs. Yuri also weighs in on his current pace; early expectations, including Shingo Takatsu’s bold 55-HR prediction; and how Murakami has exceeded them so far. The conversation shifts to what’s next, from Home Run Derby buzz to concerns in Japan about a potential midseason trade and what that means for fans hoping to see him in Chicago. Chuck and Yuri also revisit offseason skepticism about Murakami handling MLB velocity, break down his unique stat line with no doubles and all home runs, and touch on his speed, defense, and overall profile from his NPB days. They wrap with insight into how Japanese fans follow MLB despite the time difference and a quick check-in on Anthony Kay’s start to the season.

Chuck Garfien sits down with infielder Miguel Vargas for a wide-ranging conversation on where the White Sox stand right now and the mindset inside the clubhouse. Vargas shares his thoughts on the team’s confidence, why he believes they should expect to win every series, and how they’re working through both the highs and the challenges of the season. He also reflects on his bobblehead night, his evolving approach at the plate, and the importance of building real chemistry with teammates. Vargas dives into his personal growth, from improving defensively to adjusting to the ABS system, while also discussing how much more he feels he has left to tap into this season. He opens up about his connection with Munetaka Murakami, his focus on consistency, and why he believes the team could be in a much better spot as the season progresses. Plus, some lighter moments on fashion, Chuck’s style, and the ever-important suit game.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Josh to take a big-picture look at where the Chicago White Sox are in their “learning to win” phase and how clubhouse chemistry is starting to take shape, on and off the field, including a recent team outing to a Chicago Blackhawks game. They also dig into the team’s offseason approach, discussing how prospect development influenced free agent decisions and what that says about the organization’s timeline. The conversation includes a candid moment as Josh reacts to how much of last year’s roster is still in place and what that continuity could mean moving forward. The episode also gets into the next wave of talent, from Noah Schultz and his early MLB impressions to where top arms like Hagen Smith and Tanner McDougal stand in their development. Chuck and Josh break down roster decisions, rotation vs. bullpen, and what factors go into those calls, while also highlighting rising names like Colson Montgomery and Braden Montgomery. Plus, insight into Munetaka Murakami’s adjustment to life in the majors, updates on Shane Smith and Kyle Teel, and how the organization is balancing development with the push to compete.

Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB Network and CHSN White Sox analyst Dan Plesac for a conversation on the early stages of the 2026 season. They open with Munetaka Murakami’s power surge and why Plesac sees shades of Kyle Schwarber in his game. Plesac also shares his thoughts on Davis Martin’s impressive form and the early impact of rookie lefty Noah Schultz. Later, the conversation dives into the White Sox rotation’s standout numbers and what it will take for Shane Smith to work his way back to the big leagues. Plesac offers his perspective on modern pitching strategies like using an opener and what steps the Sox need to take to climb back to .500. He also reflects on his passion for covering the team as a lifelong South Side fan and shares why the return of the Southside rally polo has him fired up for the season ahead.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Davis Martin to discuss his unique perspective as the longest-tenured player on a young White Sox roster. Martin shares his view on his leadership role, what he’s seeing from the team’s clubhouse chemistry and breaks down a gritty, hard-fought series in Kansas City. Martin also dives into his performance on the mound, addressing early-season results, the state of his stuff, and how he handles outside criticism of the starting rotation. Plus, he discusses the debut of top prospect Noah Schultz, touches on Shane Smith’s time in Charlotte as he works his way back to the majors, and reflects on whether this version of himself is the best he’s brought to the big leagues so far.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox Triple-A manager Chad Pinder to break down one of the organization’s biggest storylines: the rise of Noah Schultz who is about to make his MLB debut. Pinder shares his first impressions of Schultz, whether he was surprised by how quickly the left-hander reached the big leagues or if any key adjustments helped spark his early-season jump. He also takes us inside the moment Schultz got the call to the majors and the reaction from teammates. The conversation also dives into the hot start of Sam Antonacci, highlighting his baseball IQ, defensive transition to the outfield, and areas still needing development—while Pinder reflects on making a similar jump himself with the Oakland Athletics. Plus, updates on top arms Hagen Smith and Tanner McDougal; insight on managing Shane Smith after his return to Triple-A; and a look back at Pinder’s own major league debut...that included a pair of coincidences.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil for an honest and lighthearted conversation as he navigates the early stages of recovering from Tommy John surgery. Vasil shares his initial reaction to the diagnosis, how he’s processing the setback mentally, and why it meant so much to hear his teammates want him around the team all season. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at what his role will look like on game days, from hanging in the dugout to helping out in the bullpen (and even keeping the bullpen stocked with snacks). Vasil breaks down what Tommy John surgery actually entails, including some of the more eye-opening and hard-to-unsee details, while also reflecting on the growing trend of younger players undergoing the procedure. He discusses whether he is allowing himself to think ahead to his comeback and creatively compares his journey to a pivotal chapter in The Dark Knight Rises. Plus, Vasil talks about exploring new hobbies during recovery, including the possibility of stepping into the podcasting world himself and even joining “Dr. Chuck” once a month on the White Sox podcast.

Tristan Peters joins Chuck Garfien on the show to share the winding path that’s defined his baseball journey, from growing up in Canada to grinding his way through the minors and finally reaching the big leagues. He opens up about how he landed at SIU, his time with the Savannah Bananas, and the unique experiences that shaped him both on and off the field—including the unexpected story of how line dancing led him to meet his wife. Peters also reflects on navigating multiple trades; building relationships in the clubhouse, like with Tanner Murray, and what he learned during his 2025 season in Triple-A. Later, Peters breaks down his game, highlighting his defensive mindset and ability to impact games in different ways, including bunting. He shares what it was like being traded for cash considerations and delivering a walk-off hit against the Blue Jays in his first MLB home game.  Plus, the episode closes with a special moment from the home opener, as the White Sox announce they will retire Ozzie Guillen’s No. 13, with Scott Podsednik surprising him in front of the home crowd.

Chuck Garfien is joined by World Series champion manager and longtime TV partner Ozzie Guillen for a wide-ranging conversation on the White Sox’s early-season struggles and what it will take to turn things around. Ozzie shares why patience may be key with a roster full of new faces still learning to mesh, while also weighing in on Lenyn Sosa’s playing time and what he needs to do to earn a bigger role—even if it means getting creative defensively. The conversation goes beyond the field, with stories from Ozzie’s playing and managing days, including the scrutiny he faced taking over as manager and how he handled being a clubhouse leader while hitting ninth. Chuck and Ozzie also reflect on memorable Opening Day moments, Roger Bossard’s remarkable 60-year run as the “Sodfather,” and even a few unexpected topics—like Pope Leo XIV and Ozzie’s childhood adventures as an altar boy.

Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB writer and Emmy-nominated MLB Network contributor Anthony Castrovince to break down the White Sox’s start to their 2026 campaign and why it’s far too early to hit the panic button. They dive into the opening series against the Milwaukee Brewers, including a tough Game 3 loss, and what it reveals about where the Sox stand early in the season. Plus, reactions to Pat Murphy calling the Sox a future force in the AL Central and why that praise might carry more weight than it seems. The conversation also turns to breakout potential, with buzz building around Munetaka Murakami and Castrovince calling his power “the real deal” and possibly the steal of the offseason. They debate whether Luis Robert Jr. belongs in the early MVP conversation, look at early surprises like the Miami Marlins, and get into an interesting discussion on ABS. Plus why Castrovince wouldn’t mind seeing a World Series decided by it.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza wraps up with a conversation with White Sox manager Will Venable. He reflects on the team's hustle in the final game of the 2025 season, shares what he’s learned a year into his managerial career, and opens up about key early interactions—from his conversation with Jared Kelenic to the moment he told Shane Smith he’d be the Opening Day starter. Venable also lays out the tone he wants to establish and how he plans to be more hands-on as the team takes shape. Venable dives into the bigger picture for 2026, discussing whether this group has truly learned how to win and what kind of leap the White Sox can make this season. He touches on Miguel Vargas’ presence in the clubhouse, the mindset he wants his players to carry into the year, and how he plans to guide a young roster forward. It’s a candid, tone-setting conversation that puts a bow on Podcast-pa-looza and sets the stage for what’s ahead on the South Side in 2026.

The White Sox Podcast's Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on as White Sox Reporters Connor McKnight and Brooke Fletcher join Chuck Garfien for their annual Season Predictions Show. The crew dives into big-picture projections, including how Munetaka Murakami’s power could translate, what to expect from Colson Montgomery’s production, and where the offense might stack up across the league. They also analyze key trends like the team’s performance in one-run games, debate who could lead the club in OBP, and highlight the most impactful offseason addition and a potential breakout sleeper. To wrap things up, each guest delivers a bold prediction for the season, setting the stage for what could be a fascinating year on the South Side.

The Podcast-pa-looza rolls on as Brooke Fletcher joins the show to break down the tough news surrounding Mike Vasil, who is set to undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery. Vasil also shares his own perspective on the injury and the road ahead, offering insight into how he’s handling this major setback. Later, the duo dive into the Chicago White Sox naming their starting rotation, highlighting arms like Shane Smith, Erick Fedde, and Davis Martin, before shifting to the future. They close by previewing the Spring Breakout Game, where several White Sox prospects will get a chance to showcase their talent on a bigger stage.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with new White Sox hitting coach Derek Shomon, who shares his first message to the team and the hunger he’s already seeing from the group in camp. He explains the kind of coach he aims to be while highlighting the collective effort from hitters this spring, including standout skills like William Bergolla Jr.’s ability to bunt and the progress Korey Lee has shown after making offseason adjustments. Shomon also discusses the development of several key players, including Colson Montgomery as he looks to build off his rookie season, and the early impressions of new slugger Munetaka Murakami, whom he calls "savvy." The conversation also touches on Luisangel Acuña, the strong impression Sam Antonacci has made in camp and on the international stage, and where Jared Kelenic stands as a non-roster invitee this spring.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza continues with White Sox prospect Braden Montgomery, who dives into the mindset that fuels his game and his passion for hitting. Montgomery discusses the challenge of developing as a switch-hitter, how he processes failure and uses it as motivation, the hype surrounding his rise, and the improvements he’s made as he pushes toward the majors. He also shares his reaction to taking Shota Imanaga deep, if he's picked any teammates' brains, and the work he’s put in this offseason to get stronger. Plus, Montgomery talks about his big-picture goals, including Hall of Fame aspirations, the type of player he hopes to become, and why he’s excited about the future of the White Sox.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza continues with a sit-down featuring White Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi, who shares what he’s seeing from the 2026 Chicago White Sox and why he believes the club can take a step forward after a strong finish to 2025. Benintendi explains why the word “gritty” best describes the identity this team is trying to build and discusses his role as a veteran presence alongside new additions like Austin Hays and Munetaka Murakami. Benintendi also opens up about playing through an Achilles injury and the growth he’s seeing in teammates like Opening Day starter Shane Smith. Plus, he talks about his hitting relationship with his dad, his mixed feelings about the Trajekt machine (while giving Chuck some swing advice), his Italian heritage and potential World Baseball Classic future with Italy, and what he hopes fans will say about the 2026 White Sox when the season is over. 

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with White Sox right-hander Grant Taylor, who joins the show after turning heads at SoxFest and building momentum late last season. Taylor reflects on the biggest lessons from his rookie year, the mentality he carried to the mound in 2025, and how finishing strong shaped his confidence heading into camp, plus what it means to hear praise from GM Chris Getz. The conversation also dives into the bullpen dynamic, from who brings the most heat to working alongside arms like Seranthony Dominguez, and he also talks about what it's like working with new pitching coach Zach Bove. Taylor shares what he emphasized this offseason, why there’s real buzz around the team, how he stays connected with Paul Skenes, and the special bond he has with his brother as his journey in pro ball continues to unfold.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery, who opens up about returning to Arizona with a new mindset after refining his swing last season alongside White Sox hitting director Ryan Fuller. Montgomery reflects on his incredible second half, which saw him record the second-most home runs and RBIs in the A.L., the work that fueled it, and the hustle play in the final game of 2025 that defined his edge. He also shares what it’s like living in the spotlight, the text he sent prospect Billy Carlson on draft day, and how veterans have helped shape his growth. Plus, Montgomery breaks down what he’s seeing from the 2026 White Sox and why he believes this group could surprise people.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with a deep dive into one of baseball’s most talked-about training tools: the Trajekt machine. Ryan Fuller joins the show to break down the evolution from the old model to the new, how it’s set up, what kind of feedback they’re getting from players and pitchers, and whether the results are actually translating onto the field. From usage during games to player feedback, Fuller explains why the technology is becoming a staple across clubhouses. Later, Kyle Teel jumps in to share his firsthand experience, how close Trajekt feels to facing a real pitcher, how much it’s helped his development, and the toughest arm he’s faced on the machine. He also discusses how often players use it, its success rate, and even reacts to Chuck stepping in to take a few swings himself. The episode wraps with Teel reflecting on representing his country of Italy in the World Baseball Classic.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with White Sox non-roster invitee Jarred Kelenic, who explains why signing with the South Side felt like the right move at this stage of his career. The Waukesha, Wisconsin, native reflects on growing up playing ball in the Chicago area, handling the spotlight as a former top-10 prospect, and the whirlwind path that took him from being drafted by the New York Mets to a blockbuster trade involving Robinson Cano and Edwin Diaz that sent him to the Seattle Mariners. Kelenic opens up about the adversity and growth that have shaped his confidence today, why he believes he’s always swung the bat well at Rate Field and Wrigley Field, and how those experiences fuel his belief in what he can bring to the club. He also shares his outlook on what the 2026 White Sox could become and the role he hopes to carve out moving forward.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on as Brooke Fletcher joins the show with the latest on Munetaka Murakami and his transition to the White Sox. Chuck shares a lighthearted English lesson with Murakami, while Brooke provides insight into his interpreter, Kenzo Yagi, and the dynamic helping him adjust on and off the field. Murakami also recounts witnessing a car accident on his way to the ballpark. The episode breaks down Murakami’s first couple of games in a Sox uniform and what early impressions are forming around his game. Plus, Chuck reacts to comments from Jordan Hicks about the 2026 White Sox and what they signal about the direction of the club.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with former White Sox infielder Matt Davidson, who reflects on his time on the South Side and the unforgettable moment in 2018 when he launched three home runs on Opening Day against the Royals in Kansas City. Now playing in the KBO after a 2023 season in Japan’s NPB, Davidson breaks down the similarities and differences between baseball overseas and in MLB, including his experience facing Munetaka Murakami. He also discusses what he expects from Murakami in 2026 with the White Sox, what continues to drive him to play, and how much longer he sees himself staying in the game.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza continues with White Sox catcher Edgar Quero as he heads into his sophomore season. He breaks down his work on framing, what he’s learning from bench coach Walker McKinven, and why he supports the ABS challenge system from a catcher’s point of view, while also sharing how he felt at the plate and the kind of hitter he believes he can become. Quero discusses his offseason training at Driveline Baseball and how it’s shaping his growth. He highlights pitchers who stand out to him, explains how he fooled runners with pickoffs last season, weighs in on Munetaka Murakami, and shares why he believes the 2026 Sox can push for a postseason spot.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with new White Sox outfielder Austin Hays, who explains why he chose the South Side and what he sees brewing inside the 2026 clubhouse. Hays reflects on going from 110 losses to 101 wins in a two-year span in Baltimore and draws parallels to a Sox team looking to rebound from a 102-loss season, while sharing what he can bring to help spark that turnaround. He also compares this group to last year’s Reds club that battled through adversity to reach the postseason. Hays opens up about overcoming a kidney infection in 2024 and how a conversation with Kyle Schwarber helped him address the issues he was dealing with, plus his strong relationship with hitting director Ryan Fuller, who played a key role in his 2023 All-Star campaign. He offers advice to Colson Montgomery on avoiding a sophomore slump and gives his early impressions of the 2026 Sox. And yes, he gives his two cents on Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, too.

Chuck Garfien sits down with White Sox top prospect Noah Schultz to break down the growth he’s made since being drafted and how adversity shaped his 2025 season. Schultz opens up about battling knee tendinitis, what he learned during the downtime, and why he’s entering 2026 confident and ready for a bounce-back year. He also explains how simplifying his mechanics has taken his game to another level. Schultz talks about his offseason workouts alongside Luis Robert Jr., Juan Soto, Mark Vientos, and Joey Gallo, and what he’s picked up from training with them. He talks about how he looked up to future Hall of Famer Clayton Kershaw and the process behind developing his signature pitch. Plus, Chuck asks whether he’s looking forward to a future showdown with new Sox slugger Munetaka Murakami.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza keeps rolling with White Sox pitching prospect Tanner McDougal, who opens up about the adversity he faced in 2024 and the adjustments that fueled his resurgence in 2025. He shares what he learned during the toughest stretch of his career and how that shaped his mentality heading into camp. McDougal also dives into some lighter moments, including his first taste of Malört at SoxFest and explains how events like the club’s annual spring golf outing help strengthen the bond throughout the organization. The Las Vegas native reflects on growing up in the desert, the path that led him to pro ball, and his connection to White Sox legend Frank Thomas. Plus, he names a sleeper prospect Sox fans should circle for 2026. Later, Chuck catches up with White Sox reliever Ryan Borucki, the Mundelein, Illinois native who grew up a diehard Sox fan. Borucki shows off his South Side roots by rattling off the entire 2005 lineup and talks about what it means to wear the uniform of the team he followed as a kid.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza rolls on with White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil, who’s carving out a unique role on the staff. Vasil discusses embracing his versatility on the mound and what it meant to lead all rookie relievers in innings pitched last season. Vasil also explains why he calls himself “Batman” and shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse of rooming with catcher and close friend Kyle Teel during spring training. Vasil makes it clear why he believes this White Sox team will surprise people, pointing to the club’s relentless, never-quit mentality and more.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza continues with a sit-down featuring White Sox left-hander Anthony Kay, who signed with the club in December after two standout seasons in Japan. Kay reflects on his time overseas, including memorable matchups against fellow White Sox newcomer Munetaka Murakami, and shares what it was like competing against him. Kay walks Chuck through his baseball journey and how it closely resembles Erick Fedde’s journey, while also explaining the style of pitcher he became in Japan and how that experience should translate this season. He opens up about adjusting back to the 5-man rotation, offers Chuck a quick Japanese language lesson, reacts to Murakami calling him “nasty,” and gives his early impressions of what kind of player Sox fans can expect Murakami to be.

Chuck Garfien’s Spring Training Podcast-pa-looza kicks off with Sox Machine and Baseball America writer James Fegan joining the show for a wide-ranging conversation centered on one big question: what should fans realistically expect from the White Sox this season? From overall confidence in the direction of the club to how the roster might shake out, the discussion covers it all. The conversation rolls through big-picture topics, including the offseason move that mattered most, what to expect from Munetaka Murakami, which player could make a major leap, and a few under-the-radar names. They also look ahead to positional battles, Lenyn Sosa’s Opening Day role, who might debut first between Hagen Smith and Noah Schultz, and whether the Sox can win 80 or more games. It’s a thoughtful check-in on where the Sox stand—and where they could be headed.

Chuck Garfien brings you the best moments from SoxFest 2026. The episode opens with highlights from a fan-packed panel including Senior Vice President and General Manager Chris Getz alongside manager Will Venable, as they share insight into the team’s direction and what they’re building toward this season. Chuck also goes one-on-one with several players making headlines. Catcher Kyle Teel discusses mixing baseball and music after playing guitar live in front of the SoxFest crowd and looks ahead to his sophomore season, while infielder Miguel Vargas brings up the texts he received from Luis Robert Jr. after the trade to the Mets. The episode wraps up with young star Colson Montgomery, who talks about building on his strong rookie year and what he’s focused on next.