Chuck Garfien catches up with White Sox outfielder Derek Hill for a conversation that stretches far beyond the box score. Hill reflects on the winding path that brought him from the 2014 MLB Draft to Chicago, including the influence of his father, Orsino Hill, whose own minor league journey and years in scouting helped shape Derek’s perspective on perseverance, pressure, and staying ready through countless roster moves and DFA's. Chuck also revisits a powerful 2021 quote from Orsino about life in professional baseball.

Later, Hill shares what stands out about the current White Sox clubhouse, from the chemistry between younger players and veterans to the growing buzz surrounding names like Colson Montgomery and Munetaka Murakami. He explains the mentality behind pinch-hitting success after delivering two huge pinch-hit homers already this season; discusses the challenge of quickly moving on after tough losses; and breaks down his clutch defensive play against Bobby Witt Jr. and the Royals. Plus, Derek weighs in on the Cubs-White Sox rivalry, the league-wide chatter surrounding the Sox’ surprising run, and whether this stretch of winning baseball has staying power.

Chuck Garfien chats with The Athletic's Dan Hayes to break down a surprisingly competitive American League Central race and why the division may be more wide open than expected, including for the Chicago White Sox. They discuss how the Cleveland Guardians continue to win despite losing one of baseball’s top closers, while the Minnesota Twins have struggled to protect leads even with strong starting pitching and one of the league’s highest-scoring offenses. Chuck also lays out what the White Sox need to do to seriously contend for the division, especially in head-to-head games against Cleveland.

Chuck and Dan explore why the idea of the White Sox winning the AL Central may not sound as unrealistic as people think, including comparisons between the Sox’ current momentum and Cleveland’s 2022 run. They revisit the memorable 15-inning Twins-Guardians game from 2022, examine why Chicago now has several “Guardian-like” players on the roster, and debate which team is best positioned to finish on top when the season ends. The episode wraps up with Dan’s prediction for the eventual AL Central winner and Chuck offering some playful advice to noted Sox-killer Byron Buxton before the next White Sox-Twins series.

On the latest episode of The White Sox Podcast, Chuck Garfien is joined by ESPN MLB reporter Jesse Rogers to dive into the league-wide sentiment of Murakami and how numerous executives are realizing the mistakes they made in the evaluation process this offseason.

Plus, what is Murakami's contractual future in Chicago and is the White Sox rebuild over?

The White Sox Podcast is brought to you by Wind Creek Chicago Southland.

Mike Vasil sits down with Chuck Garfien once again for his monthly appearance on the podcast, and the White Sox pitcher starts by sharing the latest on his injury recovery and how he’s handling his role on this team which includes a magic wand. Vasil breaks down the White Sox’ recent surge, explains why the clubhouse has turned into a “madhouse,” and discusses the energy players like Miguel Vargas, Sam Antonacci, and Chase Meidroth are bringing to the team during one of the Sox’ most exciting stretches in recent years.

Vasil also reflects on a statement he made during his February appearance on the show and explains why this 2026 White Sox team believes it can compete with anyone, especially inside the division. He talks about the team’s postseason mindset, the upcoming crosstown showdown against the Cubs, the celebrations happening inside the clubhouse, and what opponents should expect when facing the White Sox right now. Plus, Chuck and Mike discuss Meidroth’s memorable homer against the Royals, late-night baseball highlight sessions with teammates, and a possible future segment featuring fan questions.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Munetaka Murakami’s interpreter, Kenzo Yagi, for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most unique roles in baseball. Kenzo shares how he landed the job, initially thinking the call was a prank, and how he’s built a strong connection with Murakami both on and off the field. He also walks through Murakami’s detailed game-day routine, his own background, and the confidence it took to step into such a high-profile position.

The conversation offers a deeper look at Murakami’s personality, from the types of questions he enjoys to his thoughts on teammates and the organization, along with his awareness of the growing “Murakami Mania.” Kenzo also reflects on Murakami’s experience adjusting to Chicago, learning English, and memorable moments like spring training interactions and Ozzie Guillen’s introduction to the duo. They close by sharing one story that’s stood out the most so far and what it’s been like for Kenzo to be part of Murakami’s journey.

Chuck Garfien sits down with Japan-based reporter Yuri Karasawa of JapanBall and WorldBaseball.com to get a firsthand look at “Murakami Mania” from overseas. They dive into the reaction across Japan, whether White Sox gear is popping up more, and if even seasoned observers are surprised by Murakami leading the league in home runs. Yuri also weighs in on his current pace; early expectations, including Shingo Takatsu’s bold 55-HR prediction; and how Murakami has exceeded them so far.

The conversation shifts to what’s next, from Home Run Derby buzz to concerns in Japan about a potential midseason trade and what that means for fans hoping to see him in Chicago. Chuck and Yuri also revisit offseason skepticism about Murakami handling MLB velocity, break down his unique stat line with no doubles and all home runs, and touch on his speed, defense, and overall profile from his NPB days. They wrap with insight into how Japanese fans follow MLB despite the time difference and a quick check-in on Anthony Kay’s start to the season.

Chuck Garfien sits down with infielder Miguel Vargas for a wide-ranging conversation on where the White Sox stand right now and the mindset inside the clubhouse. Vargas shares his thoughts on the team’s confidence, why he believes they should expect to win every series, and how they’re working through both the highs and the challenges of the season. He also reflects on his bobblehead night, his evolving approach at the plate, and the importance of building real chemistry with teammates.

Vargas dives into his personal growth, from improving defensively to adjusting to the ABS system, while also discussing how much more he feels he has left to tap into this season. He opens up about his connection with Munetaka Murakami, his focus on consistency, and why he believes the team could be in a much better spot as the season progresses. Plus, some lighter moments on fashion, Chuck’s style, and the ever-important suit game.

Chuck Garfien is joined by MLB Network and CHSN White Sox analyst Dan Plesac for a conversation on the early stages of the 2026 season. They open with Munetaka Murakami’s power surge and why Plesac sees shades of Kyle Schwarber in his game. Plesac also shares his thoughts on Davis Martin’s impressive form and the early impact of rookie lefty Noah Schultz.

Later, the conversation dives into the White Sox rotation’s standout numbers and what it will take for Shane Smith to work his way back to the big leagues. Plesac offers his perspective on modern pitching strategies like using an opener and what steps the Sox need to take to climb back to .500. He also reflects on his passion for covering the team as a lifelong South Side fan and shares why the return of the Southside rally polo has him fired up for the season ahead.