The White Sox Podcast w/ Chuck Garfien

After missing three full seasons due to injuries and the pandemic, Jake Burger is back in a big way. Chuck Garfien speaks with the White Sox 2017 first-round pick about his impressive start with the Charlotte Knights and what it means to be playing competitive baseball again. They talk about his first three hits in Triple-A (all home runs), how an unexpected fan found his first home run ball and gave it to him, getting called up to the majors one day, his impressions of prospect Yoelqui Cespedes, and more. (3:35) - Why Burger is surprised by the season he's having with the Charlotte Knights (10:55) - Hitting his first home run in Triple-A and the feeling after it (17:30) - How he's becoming a better third baseman (31:00) - The fan who found his first home run ball wasn't a White Sox fan...

Chuck Garfien catches up with Paul Konerko and Jim Thome for a conversation about their White Sox careers, the art of hitting, and much more. The two White Sox legends get into the nitty gritty about hitting in the big leagues, being teammates, and playing in the “Blackout Game.” They talk about the memorabilia they have inside their homes, and Chuck gives them a pop quiz about their baseball careers. (3:50) - Konerko and Thome talk about the baseball memorabilia they have in their homes (10:15) - Their memories of the "Blackout Game" (12:30) - The art of hitting as told by Konerko and Thome (28:50) - Teaching the game to younger generations (35:34) - Baseball trivia with Paul and Jim

As the baseball calendar flips from May to June, it’s time to assess all that has happened with the White Sox in the first two months of the season and wonder what comes next. Chuck Garfien and Ryan McGuffey break down what they’ve learned about the White Sox, the team's strengths and weaknesses, why they should win the AL Central, what player the White Sox could add at the trade deadline, and more. (2:50) - How many teams are better than the White Sox? Not many (11:00) - Bench players are making a big difference (17:10) - Will the Indians be able to overtake the White Sox? (21:35) - Chuck's trade target for the outfield

With Cubs superstar Kris Bryant potentially on the trading block, MLB.com columnist Anthony Castrovince comes on the podcast to tell Chuck Garfien why he believes the White Sox are the best fit for the former MVP. The guys talk about what kind of trade package it will take to acquire Bryant, if the Cubs would be willing to deal him to the South Side, and more. (3:00) - Castrovince explains why Bryant and the White Sox are the best fit (10:00) - Why the Cubs will eventually trade Bryant this season (16:10) - Will the Cubs be willing to trade him to the White Sox? (22:50) - Who the White Sox might have to give up for Kris Bryant (24:30) - When Eloy Jimenez and Luis Robert return affects all of this

White Sox ace Lucas Giolito and St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jack Flaherty were teammates at Harvard-Westlake High School in Los Angeles. Now they’re facing off against each other as big leaguers for the very first time Tuesday night on the South Side. Chuck Garfien speaks with their high school baseball coach, Matt LaCour, who tells stories about their prep careers and what it took for them to become elite major league pitchers. LaCour, who is coming to town for the big game, talks about what it will be like being at Guaranteed Rate Field to watch his former pitchers go head-to-head. (2:46) - How did the legendary high school rotation featuring Lucas Giolito, Max Fried, and Jack Flaherty come together? (7:30) - When Matt LaCour first saw that Lucas Giolito had the potential to be something special (10:40) - The time Giolito accidentally hit Max Fried in the face with a pitch in high school (15:20) - The text LaCour received from Flaherty telling him he needs to come to Chicago for the game (20:05) - Watching the growth of Giolito in the majors (35:10) - LaCour on his former pitching coach Ethan Katz coaching Giolito in the majors

In one of the most unforgettable series in recent memory, the battle between the White Sox and Twins was also a dividing line between old-school and new-school baseball. Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey and Vinnie Duber talk about everything from Yermín Mercedes launching a home run on a 3-0 pitch in a blowout to Tony La Russa sticking to the unwritten rules of baseball to the White Sox taking two of three from the Twins in a series that buried Minnesota even further into the basement of the AL Central. 1:55 - Summing up a tense White Sox-Twins series 7:00 - La Russa - Mercedes fall out 16:48 - Throwing at batters for retaliation

The White Sox and Twins were expected to battle it out for the AL Central title, but with Memorial Day approaching, the White Sox are at the top of the division and the Twins are fighting to stay out of the cellar. Can the Twins turn their season around, or will they be forced to make an early surrender and sell before the trade deadline? Chuck Garfien and Ryan McGuffey speak with Twins beat writer Dan Hayes from The Athletic about the Twins' struggles and how the White Sox made it to first place. They also discuss the current playoff and World Series projections for both teams. (3:15) - Why have the Twins been so bad this year? (13:10) - Everything that could go wrong for the Twins has gone wrong (19:15) - Will the Twins pull the plug on the season and trade away players? (25:10) - Current odds to make the playoffs in the AL Central division (30:20) - Is there a chance the Twins can comeback? (38:00) - Current World Series Odds for the AL Centeral

Yermín Mercedes has been one of the best stories in baseball in the early stages of the 2021 season as he's completed his journey from unknown prospect to the American League Rookie of the Month. So how did the White Sox find him? Chuck Garfien speaks with White Sox assistant general manager Chris Getz, who explains how the team came upon Mercedes in 2017, the path Mercedes took to the majors, how Mercedes forced his way on the Opening Day roster and if he believes Mercedes can stick in the majors. (4:10) - How did a talent like Yermín Mercedes go under the radar for so long? (9:05) - Scouting Mercedes in the minors (14:00) - How other teams are reacting to his success (17:50) - Now a beer is named after him! (20:00) - Jake Burger's growth in the minors this year

The Minnesota Twins have been taking it to the White Sox for years. How about some revenge! With the Twins limping into town with a 12-20 record, it's time for the first place White Sox to knock them down and keep them down. Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey, and Chris Kamka talk about their frustrations with the Twins over the years and why it's important for the White Sox to make a statement against their division rivals, not just this week when they meet for three games on the South Side, but next week when they face each other again for three more battles in Minnesota. (3:10) - The Twins have been beating the White Sox for years. It's time to start ending their hopes, NOW! (8:10) - What has gone wrong for the Twins so far this season? (15:30) - We're not impressed with the Royals (20:35) - Yasmani Grandal is getting a ton of walks. Will he find his bat soon? (28:50) - White Sox depth is proving its worth with all the injuries (35:00) - The Sox have a chance to solidify 1st place in the AL Central

After a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to the Reds in 10 innings, Tony La Russa is facing criticism for his decision-making in the late innings, specifically for not being aware of a wrinkle in the extra-inning rules that would have prevented Liam Hendriks from running the bases. How did things go so wrong for La Russa and the White Sox coaching staff? Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, and Ryan McGuffey break down what happened and the decisions that were made by La Russa that led to an ugly defeat in Cincinnati. (3:00) - How many times is this going to keep happening with La Russa where he is blindsided by something? (8:00) - Who is being held accountable on the coaching staff when no one knows the rule? (14:20) - Tony La Russa in his own words, admits he didn't know the rule (17:20) - Reaction to the media needing to explain the rule to La Russa (21:00) - Will this keep happening this season?

The injury to Luis Robert is devastating for the White Sox. First Eloy Jiménez, now Robert. The center fielder is out 12 to 16 weeks with a Grade 3 hip flexor strain, a complete tear. So what do the White Sox do now? Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey, and Vinnie Duber discuss the back-breaking loss of Robert and examine the outfield market to see who the White Sox can acquire.

It's been an up-and-down April for both the White Sox and manager Tony La Russa. Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber and Ryan McGuffey discuss how La Russa has performed in his first month back in the dugout, including how he's managed his starters, the bullpen, lineups, and the coaching staff. They go over the tough loss to the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday night, when Lucas Giolito remained in the game despite being out of gas. Plus, they talk about what they're learning about La Russa as a manager in 2021. (3:15) - How would you describe Tony La Russa's first month of managing? (8:38) - There have been great games and rough ones like Tuesday vs. Tigers (11:40) - Understanding Lucas Giolito and when he's done (16:00) - La Russa's decision to go with Billy Hamilton and Leury Garcia, not Zack Collins or Andrew Vaughn (27:20) - La Russa is being held to a World Series standard

Following Michael Kopech’s electrifying 10-strikeout victory as a starter on Sunday, how will the White Sox use their fireball pitcher going forward? Chuck Garfien and Ryan McGuffey talk about Kopech’s role as a starter and reliever for the rest of 2021. They go back to Kopech’s previous home start in 2018 to see how far the White Sox have come since the lowest point of the rebuild. Plus, Kopech’s relationship with Kansas City Chiefs MVP Patrick Mahomes and more. (3:40) - How Kopech has become a better pitcher in 2021 (8:30) - Who was in the White Sox lineup for his previous start at home in 2018? (16:15) - NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes' tweet about Kopech and their relationship going back to high school (22:00) - What's next for Kopech? When will he become a full-time member of the rotation?

We're only three weeks into the baseball season, but after spending months poring over various free agent and trade possibilities for the White Sox, how are all of them doing to start the campaign? Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey, and Vinnie Duber talk about who the White Sox added (Adam Eaton, Lance Lynn, Liam Hendriks), who they didn't (George Springer, Joc Pederson, José Quintana, Corey Kluber), who they lost (Dane Dunning, James McCann) and more. (4:06) - Starting pitchers that the White Sox could have had, starting with Corey Kluber. Still want him? (13:20) - Adam Eaton vs. everybody else (19:00) - Lots of Joc Pederson talk (27:43) - Is Yermín Mercedes better than Nelson Cruz? Did we just ask that question? (32:40) - Are the White Sox set at catcher or did they miss on someone?

It's been a wild roller-coaster ride so far for the White Sox: big highs and big lows. Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, and Ryan McGuffey talk about what transpired in the season's first 17 games and what happens from here. They discuss why it's too early to be concerned, José Abreu's struggles at the plate, whether Andrew Vaughn should be sent to the minors, Yermín Mercedes and Danny Mendick pitching against the Red Sox, and more. (2:10) - The White Sox are still feeling the season out, but this is certainly a roller coaster (5:50) - Jose Abreu won't be this bad at the plate for the rest of the season (13:04) -What should the White Sox do with Andrew Vaughn? (18:05) - How can the offense become more consistent? (22:15) - White Sox hitters getting a chance to pitch vs the Red Sox

On Wednesday, April 14th 2021, Carlos Rodón nearly went perfect. Literally a foot away, but he did become the 20th White Sox pitcher to throw a no-hitter and Sox fans were there the whole way. Chuck Garfien is joined by White Sox pre/post game teammates Frank Thomas and Ozzie Guillén as they breakdown how Carlos Rodón got himself to this point, the amazing outing he had, and where they see Rodón taking his game. Congrats to Carlos Rodón!

Despite trading away several of their best players, the Cleveland Indians are still a formidable bunch, capable of giving the White Sox fits like they did last season, when they won eight of the 10 games against the South Siders. So who are these Indians? And will the White Sox have better success against them in 2021? Chuck Garfien speaks with Cleveland native Anthony Castrovince from MLB.com about how the Indians have found ways to stay competitive, if their start to this season is for real, the Lucas Giolito-Shane Bieber matchup on Tuesday, what's been the biggest issue for the White Sox thus far and more. (2:02) - Who are the Indians? How have they been able to stay competitive? (8:22) - What have we learned about the Indians so far this season? (11:34) - What kind of pitcher is Emmanuel Clase and will he become the Indians closer? (16:30) - An outside view of the White Sox and why he's picking them to win the AL Central (21:00) - The appreciation of having fans back in the stands

The White Sox started the season with World Series expectations, but so far the results have been underwhelming on the field and in the win column. What’s going on? Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey and Vinnie Duber discuss what’s ailing the White Sox right now, focusing on the defense and bullpen. Plus, Tony La Russa blames himself for a tough loss in Seattle, Yermín Mercedes and Zack Collins are off to surprising starts, Michael Kopech is must-see TV and more. (2:18) - Reaction to what the Sox have been so far (8:08) - Tony La Russa takes responsibility for the loss vs the Mariners (11:05) - White Sox players are pissed at their performances so far this season (15:25) - What have we learned about the team early in the season? (21:10) - Positive takeaways (26:20) - Grading the first week of the season. Biggest concerns for the White Sox

After winning American League Player of the Week honors, 28-year-old rookie Yermín Mercedes speaks with Chuck Garfien about his incredible start to the season, including setting a new major league record by collecting eight hits in his first eight at-bats. Mercedes also discusses his approach with two strikes, why he almost quit the game before the White Sox selected him in the Rule 5 draft in 2018, getting a photo with Mike Trout and Albert Pujols, and his next goal: being named the AL Player of the Month. (4:40) - Yermín discusses why he didn't give up after 10 years in the minors (8:30) - Finding out he was the AL Player of the Week (10:38) - The difficulties hitting DH and how he's had immediate success at it (12:40) - Getting a photo with Mike Trout and Albert Pujols

Now that the baseball season is officially here, it's time to make our predictions for 2021. Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, Ryan McGuffey, and Chris Kamka look into the future and forecast what will happen with the White Sox this season. How many innings will Lance Lynn throw? How many times will Nick Madrigal strike out? How many games will the White Sox win? Who will the White Sox acquire at the trade deadline? What will the final standings be in the AL Central? All that, the guys' boldest predictions for 2021, and more. (3:45) - How many innings will Lance Lynn have this year? (11:25) - How many strikeouts will Nick Madrigal have? (16:00) - Predicting the record, ERA, and strikeouts for Dylan Cease (20:06) - Will the Sox get into a fight with anyone in the division or the Cubs this year? (30:00) - Who will the Sox trade for this season? (36:05) - Who will be the White Sox offensive MVP? (43:45) - What will be the record of the 2021 White Sox? (54:00) - Bold predictions for the White Sox (clutches pearls)

Chuck Garfien speaks with Los Angeles Angels slugger Albert Pujols about Tony La Russa, his longtime manager with the St. Louis Cardinals with whom he has a father-son style relationship. Pujols talks about the pair's offseason conversation, where La Russa asked for advice before taking the White Sox managing job. Pujols also explains what makes La Russa a great manager, talks about his close friendship with José Abreu, previews what to expect when the White Sox and Angels play to open the season, and more.

Could this be the year for Carlos Rodon? Chuck Garfien speaks with the White Sox left-hander about his impressive spring training, nailing down a spot in the rotation, and how a strikeout of Manny Machado in spring training signaled to him that he’s back. They also discuss what he’s learned about dealing with injuries and adversity, getting non-tendered by the White Sox, his advice for the injured Eloy Jimenez, and more. (2:10) - Who is this version of Carlos Rodon? (8:20) - Getting non-tendered by the White Sox was a good "slap in the face" (11:10) - His drive to prove that he's the pitcher the White Sox drafted (14:40) - A strikeout against Manny Machado this spring... (20:10) - What it meant earning a spot in the White Sox rotation (24:16) - Were the Cubs interested in him?

You might not know the name Emily Blady, but you should. She works as a baseball operations analyst in the White Sox front office and speaks with Chuck Garfien about her job building statistical models to help the team with in-game strategies and player personnel decisions. They discuss how she got the job with the White Sox, what needs to happen for more women to be hired across Major League Baseball, if she wants to become a general manager one day, why it's an exciting time on the South Side, and more.

In a devastating development, White Sox GM Rick Hahn announced in a press conference that Sox star Eloy Jiménez ruptured a pectoral tendon after trying to make a play in the outfield. He will be out 5-6 months and will be out for the foreseeable future. Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey, and Vinnie Duber discuss and breakdown the big loss and how the Sox will try to replace their star hitter. Later in the podcast, Chuck is joined by White Sox radio analyst Darrin Jackson as they discuss who steps up in Eloy's absence and if the Sox are still contender's for the World Series. (2:00) -This is a shock to the system and is devastating for the White Sox (6:45) - Andrew Vaughn, Adam Engel, and Leury García are options to replace Eloy in left field (11:25) - How much flexibility does Tony La Russa have in left field? (16:00) - Are there any options outside of the organization to replace Eloy? (19:00) - Darrin Jackson joins Chuck Garfien (22:15) - Should Eloy return to left field when he returns from injury? (27:10) - Is there a name outside the organization that could fit the White Sox? (29:50) - Does the expectations for the season change with Eloy out?

Eloy Jiménez suffered another injury in left field. This time, he hurt his shoulder trying to catch a ball as it sailed over the fence in a spring training game against the Oakland Athletics. So what should the White Sox do with Jiménez moving forward: keep him in left field or move him to DH? Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, and Ryan McGuffey discuss the possibilities and the tricky spot the White Sox find themselves with Jiménez continuing to get hurt. Plus, Liam Hendriks has kidney stones. Will the White Sox new closer be ready for Opening Day? And could a trip to Disneyland cure what ails him? (2:40) - What should the White Sox do after Eloy injured himself in left field again? (7:00) - Eloy's injury history (9:40) - If the White Sox move Jimenez to DH, who plays left field? (17:40) - Should Andrew Vaughn be prepping to play left field this year? (22:00) -Eloy is here to hit not play defense (25:35) - Liam Hendriks' has kidney stones?

Zack Collins speaks with Chuck Garfien and Ryan McGuffey about the competition for the White Sox backup-catcher job and why he believes it would be a mistake for the team to leave him off its Opening Day roster. He explains how he's become a better hitter and catcher, the challenge and pressure of being a part-time player in the big leagues, the White Sox pitcher who has surprised him the most in camp, and more. (3:38) - Collins discusses his attitude and intention of making the Opening Day roster (7:40) - How he's grown as a catcher, the hurdles he's faced in the majors (15:00) - What it would mean to make the Opening Day roster (27:30) - Learning the pitchers on the staff and which pitcher has surprised him the most (30:30) - The feeling inside the White Sox clubhouse and why confidence is high about the 2021 season

Chuck Garfien speaks with White Sox manager Tony La Russa about the past, present, and future. They discuss the 1983 ALCS when La Russa and the White Sox were on the brink of the World Series but lost a tough series against the Orioles. Has La Russa gotten over it? (No, he hasn't). Did this weigh in his decision to come back to manage the White Sox? Also, what will be the identity of the White Sox in 2021? How will La Russa balance information and the human element of the game? Albert Pujols giving him a giant bear hug before a spring training game earlier this month, his respect for Ozzie Guillen and Frank Thomas, and more. (2:30) - La Russa describes what it's like wearing a White Sox uniform again and why it feels like he never left. (4:30) - Why he still feels the agony of losing the 1983 ALCS to the Baltimore Orioles. (9:30) - Is there unfinished business for La Russa after not winning a World Series with the White Sox? (11:25) - How has he changed since his last season as manager in 2011? (17:50) - What will the White Sox identity be in 2021? (20:30) - La Russa on Ozzie Guillén and Frank Thomas

White Sox pitchers Dylan Cease and Jimmy Lambert are sharing a house together at spring training. The two hurlers speak with Chuck Garfien about how they keep things loose as housemates and their hopes for the season ahead. Cease talks about the Cy Young hype started by his teammates and the moment when things started to click for him this spring. Lambert shares what he's learned from his veteran teammates Dallas Keuchel and Lance Lynn. Plus, the two rave about the White Sox lights-out bullpen and their expectations for the team in 2021. (2:50) - Dylan and Jimmy discuss why they chose to share a house together (6:40) - The difference in spring training this year and what it's like playing for Tony La Russa (11:50) - Cease describes the work he's done with pitching coach Ethan Katz and preparing to show what he can do (14:00) - Dallas Keuchel is a huge fan of Jimmy Lambert and believes in his abilities (19:35) - What should fans know about Jimmy Lambert and Dylan Cease (26:30) - Who has the nastiest stuff on the White Sox pitching staff (32:00) - Jimmy and Dylan develop gameplans for each other's next start

It's official. Lucas Giolito will start for the White Sox on Opening Day against the Los Angeles Angels. Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, and Ryan McGuffey discuss how Giolito has gone from struggling major leaguer to bona fide ace of the White Sox pitching staff. Plus, Giolito talks about what the Opening Day start means to him, and manager Tony La Russa explains his decision to go with Giolito over veterans Dallas Keuchel and Lance Lynn. The crew also discusses Dylan Cease's impressive first start of the spring and where he fits into the White Sox rotation, how Eloy Jiménez keeps raking against the Cubs, and the die-hard White Sox fan who streamed the White Sox spring training game from Antarctica. (2:30) - Lucas Giolito is named the Opening Day starter (8:45) - Tony La Russa on why he named Lucas the starter and Lucas speaks on being named the starter (1630) - Is Dylan Cease the X-factor that will push the White Sox over the top? (21:10) - Lucas Giolito describes the growth in Dylan Cease and what he's excited to see (27:30) - Eloy Jiménez rakes vs the Cubs. AGAIN

What kind of year could be in store for the White Sox in 2021? Chuck Garfien speaks with White Sox TV analyst Steve Stone about the team that’s been assembled and why he believes the bullpen will be the best in the majors. Stone talks about a managing philosophy Tony La Russa shared with him in 1978 that is a great match for the current roster, how he won the 1980 Cy Young by changing the mental part of his game, how Ethan Katz can help this pitching staff, and much more. (3:08) - How good can the White Sox be? Steve Stone thinks they can win the World Series (7:30) - How should teams handle pitchers and their arms after a 60 game season? (11:30) - What Tony La Russa told him in 1978 about managing that was years ahead of time (16:20) - Stone's proposal to Rob Manfred for baseball re-alignment (19:58) - Steve on White Sox pitching coach Ethan Katz mixing the mental part of the game with the physical in his coaching style (26:34) - How did Steve Stone win the Cy Young award?

It's been a rough spring training for the White Sox so far in the win column. But does it really matter? Chuck Garfien and Vinnie Duber go inside what's been happening with the White Sox, why they're struggling to win games, and why you shouldn't be concerned. You'll hear from Tony La Russa, Aaron Bummer, and Eloy Jimenez. Want to feel better about the White Sox spring training record? This should help. (2:20) - What's going on with the White Sox in Arizona? (5:50) - Spring training quirkiness with lineups and rules (11:30) - White Sox depth pieces are struggling so far (13:45) - Tony La Russa, Aaron Bummer and Eloy Jimenez talk about the lack of wins (16:00) - What to expect for the rest of spring training

What’s in store for Eloy Jiménez in 2021? Chuck Garfien and Vinnie Duber speak with the White Sox left fielder about how many home runs he can hit in a season, his goal of winning an MVP, and playing alongside Luis Robert in the outfield. He also explains why he cried after learning that José Abreu won the AL MVP and how tough it was missing time during the playoffs with a foot injury. Plus, Jiménez gives his thoughts on Yoán Moncada’s music video, Nick Madrigal’s quest for 3,000 hits, and Vinnie’s mustache. (4:10) - Eloy believes this team is special and can compete at a high level this year and beyond (8:20) - After Jose Abreu won MVP Eloy cried. He explains why and how he thinks there are multiple MVP winners on the team (12:25) - Eloy on playing left field, running into Luis Robert and the dynamic of playing outfield with Luis. (16:00) - Not being able to play in the playoffs last year crushed Eloy, he explains what it was like not being able to help his team (19:00) - Impressions of manager Tony La Russa and playing for him (20:30) - It's the White Sox turn to take over Chicago baseball, the Cubs had their time

One of the biggest moves of the White Sox offseason came in the broadcast booth, where Len Kasper became the play-by-play voice on the South Side after 16 seasons calling Cubs games on TV. Chuck Garfien gets together with Kasper and White Sox broadcasting mainstay Darrin Jackson to talk about their new partnership, developing on-air chemistry, and the excitement surrounding the 2021 team. Kasper also explains why he jumped at the opportunity to call White Sox games, what it will be like broadcasting Crosstown games going forward and who's the better player: Tim Anderson or Javier Báez? (3:00) - Moving from the Cubs to the White Sox for not only Len, but Darrin as well (6:35) - White Sox vs. Cubs and the significance of the rivalry (9:55) - What goes into creating a great radio broadcast? (20:15) - The chance to call playoff games for the White Sox was too much to pass up for Len Kasper (25:40) - Why Tony La Russa is the right manager for this team (31:00) - Tim Anderson vs Javy Baez

The White Sox and the City of Chicago have agreed on a plan for fans to return to Guaranteed Rate Field in a limited capacity to start the season. Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey and ESPN's Jesse Rogers talk about who can buy tickets and how fans might need to be creative in the early going to attend games. What it will mean for White Sox fans to see players like Luis Robert, Dallas Keuchel and Nick Madrigal in person for the first time. They also talk about Tony La Russa and Cubs fans tired tweets about the White Sox not drawing fans. (3:00) - First reaction to the news that fans will be allowed back in the stands (10:20) - How will the White Sox distribute tickets? (18:50) - How will fans react to seeing the White Sox in person after so much time away? (25:30) - Could Tony La Russa be the right guy for this team after all? (30:20) - Cubs trying to trash White Sox fans

Don’t stop believin’ in Lance Lynn. In his first spring training game with the White Sox, he showed us exactly what he’s all about: He doesn’t like to be taken out of games, and he doesn’t care who’s in the batter's box. Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, and Ryan McGuffey talk about Lynn’s Cactus League performance against the San Francisco Giants and why he’s such a throwback that brings to mind the 2005 White Sox starting staff. The crew also discusses the backup-catcher competition and Michael Kopech's painful-sounding games of catch with fellow fireballer Garrett Crochet. (2:20) - Lance Lynn does not care about what your lineup looks like (8:00) - Who else on this team is a 2005 throwback? (13:25) - Who will be the backup catcher for the White Sox? Jonathan Lucroy? (19:56) - Is it too dangerous for Michael Kopech to be playing catch with Garrett Crochet? (23:30) - Creative ways the Sox can use Michael Kopech this years

Want an inside perspective on the White Sox from someone who came from the outside? Chuck Garfien got it from new White Sox catching coach Jerry Narron, a former major league catcher, bench coach, and manager who talks about how Tony La Russa is impacting the team at spring training, his thoughts on every White Sox catcher, and how he writes his artistic lineup cards that are creating a buzz in camp. He also tells stories about his Yankees days with Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, and Thurman Munson. Plus, Chuck gives a baseball Tim Anderson threw to him during practice away to a lucky White Sox fan. (2:30) - The magic of the lineup card. Jerry Narron gives the details on how he creates his lineup cards (9:10) - Narron discusses his first impressions of the White Sox roster and what it's like working with Tony La Russa and how La Russa is getting the Sox prepared to win. (15:00) - Narron who is a former catcher breaks down the White Sox catching group and details what he likes and expects from them (20:20) - With concerns from fans about La Russa's age and ability to connect with younger players, Narron describes why La Russa is the right manager for this team (22:35) - Narron tells stories of his playing days in the majors and some of the interesting talents and people he has played with and for (35:50) - Chuck announces the winner of the Tim Anderson baseball giveaway

White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet joins Chuck Garfien to talk about his electric rookie season, including his major league debut and a memorable performance against the Cubs. They discuss what it was like pitching in the playoffs, the feeling in camp with new manager Tony La Russa, his recent proposal to his girlfriend, and why Chuck thinks he’s found the perfect nickname for Crochet. (2:45) - What was it like skipping the minors and going straight to The Show (10:00) - Gaining confidence with early success in the majors (17:15) - What is a major league camp like with Tony La Russa? (22:55) - The Sox seem like they have a potentially dominant bullpen, does the team feel that way? (29:05) - The excitement around spring training and getting the season started

The White Sox first spring training game Sunday in Glendale, Arizona, represented the return of so much: baseball, fans in the stands, Tony La Russa and Jake Burger, back on the field three years after tearing his Achilles tendon. And that's only the beginning. Yoán Moncada is back and healthy, and José Abreu returned from a brief COVID-induced absence, reporting to camp over the weekend. Chuck Garfien speaks with Scott Merkin, White Sox beat writer for MLB.com, about all of this and more as the Cactus League season gets underway. (2:30) - The return of fans with masks to watch the first White Sox spring training game felt normal (7:44) - People in the White Sox organization are excited and fired up about the vision Tony La Russa has for this team and the direction he has the White Sox going in (15:14) - Jake Burger on making it back to the field after 3 years due to injuries (20:57) - José Abreu makes his debut in spring training after being absent due to COVID (24:40) - What are the players saying about Tony La Russa?

Will Andrew Vaughn start the season as the White Sox everyday DH? The 2019 first-round pick joins Chuck Garfien to talk about his opportunity to win the job out of spring training, how the pandemic affected his 2020 season, getting hitting tips from Hall of Famer Jim Thome, being “a pain in the rear” in the batter’s box against Lucas Giolito, the respect the players have for new manager Tony La Russa and more. (2:30) - Preparing for baseball during a pandemic, Vaughn's time training in the White Sox facility in Schaumburg. (9:20) - Learning how to DH and getting hitting tips from Jim Thome (12:42) - What Tony La Russa told him before spring training about earning the DH job (16:00) - Wanting to play like Dustin Pedroia and being compared to a young Billy Butler (24:20) - Rooming and competing for a job with Gavin Sheets (27:30) - His excitement about playing in the majors after a year without games

The Athletic's Joe Posnanski says White Sox legend Minnie Miñoso is the biggest void in the Hall of Fame. Chuck Garfien speaks with Posnanski, who explains why Miñoso belongs in the Hall and why he's "very optimistic" that Miñoso will get into Cooperstown later this year. Posnanski also shares his thoughts about the White Sox decision to bring Hall-of-Fame manager Tony La Russa back for another go-round as the South Side skipper. (2:54) - Joe dives into why Minnie Miñoso is the best player not in the Hall of Fame (7:20) - Miñoso was the Latino Jackie Robinson (14:10) - Miñoso's career numbers would have been better if allowed to play in MLB sooner (22:28) - List of facts people may not know about Miñoso (29:16) - Joe discusses why he wasn't a fan of the White Sox hiring La Russa

Everyone seems to believe that the AL Central will be decided between the White Sox and the Twins. So which is the better team? Chuck Garfien and Ryan McGuffey speak with The Athletic's Dan Hayes to get the lowdown on the White Sox division rivals. They compare and contrast both clubs, breaking down seven major categories before deciding which is the superior squad. (5:20) -The AL Central division is going to come down to the Twins and the White Sox (7:25) - Offseason moves comparison, which team had the better offseason? (18:08) - Offensive comparison, which lineup has more firepower? (22:43) - Defensive comparison, have the White Sox finally overcome their team deficiencies on defense? (28:54) - Better starting rotation? White Sox! White Sox! White Sox! (35:36) - Comparing coaching staff (40:00) - Do the Twins still have the mental edge over the White Sox? (42:14) - Final decisions. Who will win the AL Central division crown?

White Sox ace Lucas Giolito speaks with Chuck Garfien about the team's "World Series or bust" attitude at the outset of spring training. He explains how Yasmani Grandal's work behind the plate really stands out, how Michael Kopech is already throwing effortless gas, why he thinks the White Sox bullpen is the best in the majors, which South Side pitcher has the nastiest pitch in the league, why Andrew Vaughn will be a force in 2021 and much more. (2:00) - Giolito's reaction to Yoan Moncada's music video (5:30) - White Sox have transitioned from playoffs or bust to World Series or bust (11:28) - Lucas discusses his first playoff appearance and how he handled it. (19:45) - The philosophy of pitching, velocity vs control (26:20) - What kind of talent does Michael Kopech have? (32:54) - The missing piece this team needs is a killer instinct. Giolitio describes how the Sox can attain it

After almost a year away from the game, Michael Kopech is back with the White Sox with a new perspective on life and a new role heading into the 2021 season. Kopech met the media Saturday and talked about the changes to his on- and off-field life. Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey, and Vinnie Duber react to Kopech's first public comments since he opted not to play during the 2020 season. Plus, White Sox ace Lucas Giolito gives his initial impressions of watching Kopech's bullpen sessions at spring training. (2:20) - First reactions to Michael Kopech speaking to the media after a 1yr layoff. Why Sox fans should be rooting for Kopech the person as well as the player (8:50) - Michael Kopech in his own words on why he needed to take the year off. Not only COVID related but wanted to work on his mental health as well. (13:30) - Kopech describes what has changed in his life after taking the year off (16:50) - Lucas Giolito discusses how great Kopech looks in spring training and that bringing Kopech from the bullpen might be the best strategy as he returns to form. (19:20) - The White Sox goal with Kopech should be to get him primed and ready for a deep playoff run.

As the White Sox prepare for the 2021 season, which player is going to be the difference between the team making it to the playoffs and making it to the World Series? In other words: Who's the biggest X-factor? Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, and Ryan McGuffey discuss a host of candidates, plus hear Liam Hendriks and Yasmani Grandal talk about a couple of them before the crew comes up with its pick for the biggest X-factor on the White Sox roster. (3:00) - What does it mean to be an X-factor? (7:12) - Can Luis Robert be the X-Factor that will propel the White Sox this year? (11:20) - Yasmani Grandal thinks Dylan Cease can be a Cy Young finalist (20:50) - Does the uncertainty of where or when Michael Kopech will play stop him from being an X-factor for the White Sox? (23:55) - Liam Hendriks thinks the addition of Adam Eaton was one of the more important on the White Sox and Eaton can be the X-factor the team needs (31:10) - Yasmani Grandal's ability to be consistent can be the X-factor the White Sox need in 2021 (39:13) - The final decision, who is the biggest X-Factor for the White Sox in 2021

On Day 1 of spring training, general manager Rick Hahn told reporters that the goal is for the White Sox to win the World Series in 2021. That ought to get South Side fans fired up for baseball season. Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey, and Vinnie Duber react to Hahn's comments, as well as Tony La Russa's interview with Bob Nightengale and the idea that Michael Kopech could possibly start the season as part of the White Sox bullpen. (1:50) - Rick Hahn sets the standard with World Series or bust mentality to begin the season (6:00) - Tony La Russa's sit down interview with Bob Nightengale (11:14) - Tony La Russa discusses his latest arrest, and if he considered resigning from the White Sox (16:30) - Should the White Sox consider using Michael Kopech out of the Bullpen instead of having him in the minors? (24:40) - Rick Hahn views Michael Kopech as a major league starter and details what they want from him and what they are looking for this season (28:55) - Andrew Vaughn will be in the mix for DH. Does Yermin Mercedes have a shot?

If José Abreu wants to repeat as American League MVP in 2021, he's got plenty of competition on his own team. Chuck Garfien, Vinnie Duber, and Ryan McGuffey go over the preseason MVP odds put out by PointsBet Sportsbook, which include several White Sox stars. Is there a lack of respect for Abreu? Should Eloy Jiménez and Tim Anderson have even better odds? Then there are the preseason Cy Young odds. One White Sox pitcher has some of the best odds out there, and a surprising name shows up on the list, too. (2:30) - White Sox place six players on preseason MVP odds list (6:35) - Three White Sox players have 25-to-1 odds to win MVP (12:30) - Will Luis Robert take a Mike Trout style type leap in his second year in the majors? (15:00) - Yasmani Grandal has 30-to-1 odds to win the AL MVP (19:00) - Eloy Jiménez and Tim Anderson are 40-to-1 to win MVP: too high? (26:07) - Who has the best odds to win the Cy Young? (31:10) - Dylan Cease surprisingly places on the Cy Young odds list

With spring training about to begin, Chuck Garfien speaks with White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson to get you primed for baseball season. They talk about the White Sox offseason moves, how new manager Tony La Russa will fit with the team, why Anderson didn't do any bat flips last season, and MLB Network ranking Anderson the 10th best shortstop in the game (hint: he's not happy about it). Plus, the two discuss what the White Sox were missing last season, what it would mean to Anderson to win a World Series, and much more. (5:10) - Why he didn't bat flip last season (7:28) - Being ranked the 10th best shortstop in baseball, "That's bulls***" (13:56) - What it's like being on the cover of RBI Baseball 21? (24:00) - His initial reaction to the White Sox hiring Tony La Russa and how he'll fit with the players (34:41) - Anderson reacts to Chicago Bulls star Zach LaVine saying Tim is "Bringing swag back to baseball" (39:12) - PECOTA projections having the White Sox only winning 83 games and losing the division (44:20) - The White Sox offseason moves and what was missing last season

With so much focus on who the White Sox did and didn't add to the roster this winter, it seems one of the biggest X-factors for the 2021 season has flown a little bit under the radar. Luis Robert had an impressive rookie season, displaying his immense talent and five-tool ability. But what awaits in 2021, now that he's gotten his first taste of the major leagues? Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey, and Vinnie Duber discuss the glimpse of potential that Robert provided during his rookie season and what fans can expect from the superstar in the making this season. Plus, where should Tony La Russa slot Robert in his batting order? (2:15) - Has Luis Robert gone under the radar this offseason? (7:00) - What could be in store for Luis Robert in 2021? (12:40) - Luis Robert's struggles last season (16:50) - Where will Robert bat in the lineup? (23:20) - Luis Robert is already on a path to be an elite defender if he's not there already (29:20) - How will Robert start the season when the weather won't be warm?

After making the playoffs in 2020 and adding to the club this winter, the White Sox are looking like one of the best teams in the AL, and MLB Network Radio host Mike Ferrin agrees. Chuck Garfien speaks with Ferrin about the White Sox offseason moves and why he believes they can make it to the World Series. The guys also examine whether the White Sox need to add more before the season begins and whether top ranked prospect Andrew Vaughn be the answer at DH in 2021. (2:00) - What's it like covering and broadcasting baseball during the pandemic? (7:20) - Is Tony La Russa the right fit for the White Sox? (12:10) - Breaking down the White Sox roster, including offseason additions Adam Eaton and Lance Lynn (21:10) - Who will be the White Sox designated hitter, and if it's Andrew Vaughn, will he be ready? (26:15) - Who will win the AL Central: the White Sox or the Twins? (34:45) - White Sox broadcasting team gets a boost with Len Kasper

With White Sox killer Nelson Cruz resigning with the Twins, how does this affect not only the Twins but the White Sox in 2021? Chuck Garfien, Ryan McGuffey and Vinnie Duber discuss where the White Sox stand after the big move by their division rivals, and will rookie Andrew Vaughn be ready to be the White Sox regular DH? Plus, can the White Sox rely on Carlos Rodon and is the White Sox front office done making moves? (1:50) - First impressions of Nelson Cruz going back to Minnesota (5:10) - Did the White Sox have a chance to get Nelson Cruz? (10:30) - Will Andrew Vaughn be the DH the White Sox need? (17:10) - What will the White Sox do to try to slow Cruz this season? (22:20) - Who will be the five starters in the White Sox rotation? Should the White Sox keep adding pitching? (30:46) - Are the White Sox done adding to the roster before the start of the season?