Chicago White Sox name Game 1 starter for Guardians playoff clash

The Chicago White Sox are in unfamiliar territory, winning a playoff series for the first time since 2025. But as they prepare for the American League Division Series, Chicago will be facing a familiar face.

The Cleveland Guardians and White Sox battled for the AL Central crown all year. Chicago won the battle, going 7-6 over their season series. But Cleveland won the war, winning the Central. Still, all roads led back to both teams squaring off in the ALDS.

Now a five-game series, White Sox manager Will Venable will be more precarious with his pitching decisions. He wants to rely on Chicago’s strong bullpen. But he’ll need a strong outing from anyone who earns a starting nod.

Venable has made his decision for game. It’s one White Sox fans should be accustom to.

Chicago White Sox turn to Hagen Smith for Game 1

Just like they did in the Wild Card Series, the White Sox will be starting Hagen Smith in Game 1, via James Fegan of the Chicago Sun-Times. Venable was clearly happy with the results from his first go around.

In Game 1 against the Houston Astros, Smith threw three innings of scoreless baseball, allowing two hits and no walks while striking out one. The left-hander doesn’t go deep into games, but the former top prospect has been highly effective in short bursts throughout his rookie season.

Over his first 18 regular season games in the major leagues, Smith put up a 1.29 ERA and a 41/16 K/BB ratio. While he mainly worked out of the bullpen in 2026, the White Sox will hope he can be a fixture in their rotation long-term.

In Game 1 of the ALDS though, all Chicago cares about is getting off to a hot start. The Guardians may know the White Sox well. But Venable remains confident Smith will knock Cleveland off their course.

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