Will Venable wins AL Manager of the Year award after huge turnaround with White Sox
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Will Venable was named the 2026 American League Manager of the Year after leading the Chicago White Sox to a dramatic turnaround, improving their win total by 24 games from 2025 and finishing second in the AL Central.
- The White Sox, initially expected to finish last in their division, led much of the season and made a surprising playoff run, winning their first four postseason games before losing the ALDS in five games.
- Venable's strategic use of openers, bullpen games, and platoons maximized the team's pitching and offensive potential, helping the White Sox lead the AL with 776 runs scored in 2026.
- He is the sixth White Sox manager to win the Manager of the Year award, joining notable predecessors like Ozzie Guillen and Tony LaRussa.
- Following this breakout season, Venable and the White Sox are positioned to build on their success and aim for continued strong performances in 2027.
