The Chicago White Sox surprised many by transforming from a team with three consecutive seasons of over 100 losses into a postseason competitor in 2026. They swept the Houston Astros in a best-of-three wild-card series, advancing to the American League Division Series. Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, celebrating in the visitors’ clubhouse at Daikin Park, playfully remarked about converting to a different belief after the win. Reflecting on past glories, he compared this victory to the 2005 World Series championship celebrated in the same venue.
Despite the smaller scale, the recent 7-3 victory over the Astros marked the Sox’s first playoff series win since 2005. This victory sets up a contest against the Cleveland Guardians in the ALDS. As the team celebrated, they chanted Reinsdorf’s name, signifying support. Reinsdorf noted the uniqueness of the Sox’s journey, emphasizing that only the players believed in their own success at the onset of the season.
Sox pitcher Davis Martin reflected on the team’s confidence, saying they always believed in their playoff potential despite external doubts. The Sox’s victory came with a strategy unfamiliar to many, yet effective against an AL West team that had finished with a .500 record. General Manager Chris Getz admitted even he did not foresee such postseason celebrations.
“I believed we’d improve from last year, but our achievements this season have been a lesson in staying focused and taking one step at a time,” Getz remarked.
Jerry Reinsdorf humorously acknowledged his controversial decision to hire Getz. With comparisons made to past successes during the Michael Jordan era and the 2005 Sox victory, Reinsdorf emphasized the importance of enjoying current achievements.
Changes have been slow within the Sox’s organization, often promoting from within. Getz’s appointment was part of this tradition, despite mixed reception. Since being promoted, some of Getz’s strategies, like trades involving Garrett Crochet and acquiring players like Miguel Vargas, proved beneficial although not all decisions worked out.
Getz received gratitude for fostering a team-family environment, illustrated by shared meals and camaraderie. These actions contributed to the team’s success. Martin, recalling 2024’s record 121-loss season and Reinsdorf’s commitment, highlighted these efforts. Reinsdorf humorously confessed his lack of prediction prowess when recounting the team’s unexpected progress.
As the Sox prepare for Cleveland, they remain a team transformed, no longer underdogs. Reinsdorf refrained from making further predictions about their future but celebrated the possibility of achieving even more. He referenced the historic triumph of the 1969 Mets as a source of hope.