Rangers see core coach stolen as White Sox manager search concludes

After much speculation, the Texas Rangers have finally lost a valuable asset who has decided to take on a new challenge.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Rangers’ associate manager Will Venable will become the Chicago White Sox’ new skipper. The 42-year-old will replace interim manager Grady Sizemore, become the 44th manager in franchise history, and try to help the club rebound from an abysmal year that saw them lose 121 games.

Venable’s resume is impressive. The former major league talent played nine seasons and has coached in different capacities with multiple clubs. He served as a special assistant to Chicago Cubs’ president Theo Epstein, a coach for the North Siders, and as a Red Sox’ bench coach. Most notably, Venable served as the Rangers’ associate manager during their 2023 World Series run.

Rangers see core coach stolen as White Sox manager search concludes

The California native’s name has come up during multiple managerial searches. He turned down the New York Mets last season, was reportedly on the Cincinnati Reds’ radar before they ultimately scored Terry Francona, and has been a regular target for the last two seasons.

Texas may now look at bench coach Donnie Ecker as their future manager. Ecker was rumored to be a part of the White Sox’ search, but with Bochy’s future beyond 2025 uncertain, the 38-year-old may be in prime position to earn a promotion down the road.

Interestingly, Venable was part of the interview process for the last White Sox' managerial opening when Pedro Grifol ultimately was hired ahead of the 2023 season. Many pundits and fans felt as if Venable was in line to take over for Bruce Bochy in Texas sooner rather than later, but the former outfielder has decided to leave Arlington for the Windy City.

Three newly-ordained skippers made the Postseason this fall, tying the largest count in MLB history. Given Venerable has been around a championship contender, it is possible that Chicago saw him as the sort of individual who could lead a franchise into a new era.

The White Sox will have work to do this offseason, but they have at least figured out who will be guiding the club for the foreseeable future.