When the season began, the Chicago White Sox were looking to take steps forward after three straight 100-loss seasons, including a modern-day major-league record of 121 in 2024.
They made a giant leap, returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2021. And then they won a postseason series for the first time since the 2005 World Series by sweeping the Houston Astros in the American League wild-card series.
But the magic came to an end in the AL Division Series, as the Cleveland Guardians won three straight win-or-go-home games against the Sox to advance in the postseason.
Here’s how the best-of-five series unfolded.
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Game 1: White Sox 3, Astros 0
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami yells in celebration after hitting a two-run home run in the fourth inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans chant, “Let’s Go, White Sox!” at the start of the ninth inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox outfielders Brenton Doyle, from left, Tristan Peters and Braden Montgomery celebrate after a 3-0 win over the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami, right, is congratulated by third baseman Miguel Vargas at the plate after hitting a two-run home run in the fourth inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Anthony Kay adjusts his cap in the fifth inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Saturday, Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
A costume hot dog race commences in the outfield before the sixth inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio, left, chases down a grounder from White Sox pinch hitter Tristan Peters in the sixth inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox reliever Grant Taylor kicks his leg after retiring the side in the eighth inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Saturday, Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians left fielder Angel Martínez jumps to catch a fly ball hit by White Sox designated hitter Tommy Pham for an out in the sixth inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami yells toward teammates after hitting a single against the Guardians in the first inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians catcher Austin Hedges fails to gain control of the ball as White Sox catcher Kyle Teel slides to the plate to score on a double from shortstop Colson Montgomery in the seventh inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel celebrates after scoring on a double from shortstop Colson Montgomery in the seventh inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox starting pitcher Hagen Smith, center, hands off the ball as he is taken out of the game after walking three consecutive Guardians batters in the third inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor looks toward first base while throwing in the seventh inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami connects for a single against the Guardians in the first inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery throws to first base to complete a double play in the seventh inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians second baseman Travis Bazzana, center, completes a double play on designated hitter Tommy Pham and the White Sox in the fourth inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians third baseman José Ramírez flies out in the eighth inning against the White Sox in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
A fan gets close to a foul ball in the eighth inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox starter Hagen Smith delivers against the Guardians in the first inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Saturday, Oct. 3, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians pitcher Cade Smith throws against the White Sox in the ninth inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians center fielder Steven Kwan catches a fly ball hit by White Sox pinch hitter Sam Antonacci for an out in the ninth inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Fans reach for a foul ball in the second inning between the White Sox and Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor celebrates after a 3-0 win over the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Bryan Hudson (60) throws in the third inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Randal Grichuk catches a fly ball hit by Guardians right fielder Chase DeLauter with the bases loaded to end the third inning in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
The sun rises behind Progressive Field as grounds crew workers prepare for Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians starting pitcher Parker Messick throws against the White Sox in Game 1 of an AL Division Series on Saturday, Oct. 3, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
A grounds crew worker paints the 2026 Postseason logo near first base in preparation for Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery arrives for Game 1 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas, left, and pitcher Huascar Brazobán arrive for Game 1 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Grounds crew workers walk through the field at Progressive Field before Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, left, and White Sox manager Will Venable greet each other before Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox batting equipment is stored on shelves in the visitors dugout before Game 1 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitchers warm up with a soccer ball before Game 1 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor warms up before Game 1 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
The national anthem is played before Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth warms up for Game 1 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 3 in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Grounds crew workers prepare for batting practice before Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Griffin Moriarty, center left, and Sean Burke, center right, wear Pope Leo XIV miters while talking with Lori Dexter, left, and Elizabeth Freitag, wearing Mike Vasil wizard hats, before Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
A military transport plane flies above Progressive Field during the national anthem for Game 1 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
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White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami yells in celebration after hitting a two-run home run in the fourth inning against the Guardians in Game 1 of the AL Division Series on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Munetaka Murakami hit a rocket to right field.
The White Sox first baseman took a couple of seconds to admire the blast, then tossed the bat and turned to his teammates in the dugout, yelling in excitement.
“I can’t really explain it in words right now,” Murakami said through an interpreter when asked what was said. “But it was something a little bit dirty.”
Murakami’s two-run home run in the fourth inning lifted the Sox to a 3-0 victory against the Guardians in Game 1 of the ALDS in front of a sellout crowd of 34,287 at Progressive Field. Read more here.
Game 2: White Sox 4, Guardians 3
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery celebrates with cheering fans after a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Sean Burke, right, greets family members and friends after a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel, left, and pitcher Grant Taylor celebrate a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor raises his arms in celebration of a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans cheer towards players after a 4-3 White sox win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel, left, fist bumps pitcher Sean Burke at the end of the seventh inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox center fielder Brenton Doyle, left, and right fielder Braden Montgomery celebrate a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery makes a “W” hand gesture after a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery jogs to the dugout with joyful expression on his face after a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Grant Taylor retrieves a ball while throwing in the ninth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci (17) throws back a ball hit by Guardians center fielder Steven Kwan for an out in the eighth inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci (17) and center fielder Brenton Doyle (7) chase down a ball hit for an RBI triple by Guardians designated hitter Jo Adell in the eighth inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Sean Burke heads to the dugout after being taken out of the game in the eighth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox center fielder Brenton Doyle eyes a fly ball hit by Guardians second baseman Travis Bazzana before catching it for an out in the seventh inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians designated hitter Jo Adell, center, adjusts his batting helmet after hitting an RBI triple in the eighth inning against the White Sox in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Sean Burke, left, is taken out of the game in the eighth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci jumps to catch a fly ball hit by Guardians first baseman Nathaniel Lowe for an out in the eighth inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery yells in celebration after hitting a two-run double in the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery, right, is congratulated during a pitching change after hitting a two-run double in the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery scores on a single from second baseman Chase Meidroth in the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami runs to first after hitting into a fielder’s choice in the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery connects for a two-run double in the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third base coach Justin Jirschele (71) and third baseman Miguel Vargas talk at third base in the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians pitcher Erik Sabrowski frowns before being taken out of the game in the sixth inning against the White Sox in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. Sabrowski gave up a two-run double to White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery in the inning. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) celebrates after scoring on a single from first baseman Munetaka Murakami in the fourth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel, left, slides to the plate to score on a single from first baseman Munetaka Murakami in the fourth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery heads to the dugout after being called out on strikes in the fourth inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio turns a double play against White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery in the third inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel, left, talks with pitcher Sean Burke in the third inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox manager Will Venable, center, waits to hand the ball to pitcher Sean Burke in the third inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci adjusts his batting helmet between pitches in the third inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Sean Burke has his hands checked by an official before taking the mound in the third inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami connects for an RBI single against the Guardians in the fourth inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox starting pitcher Anthony Kay, right, hands the ball to manager Will Venable as he is taken out of the game in the first inning against the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami chases after a bad throw resulting in two Guardians runs in the first inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Sean Newcomb retrieves a ball after two Guardians runs in the first inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians third baseman José Ramírez, left, loses his batting helmet while safely reaching second base as White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery watches a grounder from Guardians right fielder Chase DeLauter in the first inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox starting pitcher Anthony Kay throws in the first inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci looks at the first base umpire as he is called out on a grounder in the first inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci hits a grounder for an out in the first inning in Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil hoists infield coach Justin Jirschele (71) as they dance in the dugout before Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Stadium shadows frame the 2026 Postseason logo along first base before Game 2 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox infield coach Justin Jirschele (71) and pitcher Mike Vasil dance in the dugout before Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel heads to the bullpen to warm up for Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox batting equipment is stored in shelves in the visitors dugout for Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox manager Will Venable waits for Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians to begin on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox players and coaches watch batting practice before Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Bryce Cleary takes a selfie with White Sox pitcher Bryan Hudson before Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitchers and coaches fist bump one another after warming up for Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox position players retrieve their gloves while warming up before Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Sean Burke mimics throwing to first base as he arrives for Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery waits for teammates to begin stretching exercises before Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox position players warm up before Game 2 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Grounds crew workers prepare the infield for batting practice before Game 2 of the AL Division Series between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
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White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery celebrates with cheering fans after a 4-3 win over the Guardians in Game 2 of the AL Division Series on Oct. 5, 2026, in Cleveland. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Braden Montgomery was ready for “something to attack.” The White Sox right fielder batted with runners on second and third and two outs in the sixth inning and the team down by one run in Game 2 of the American League Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians.
“I wasn’t playing the guessing game,” Montgomery said. “Just ready for (reliever Erik Sabrowski’s) hardest stuff and ready for something over the plate.
“They were attacking me all night early on, and so got to be ready.”
Montgomery came through with a two-run opposite-field double to right field, giving the Sox the lead. He then scored on a single by Chase Meidroth and the Sox held on for a 4-3 victory on Monday in front of a sellout crowd of 32,050 at Progressive Field.
Sean Burke pitched 5 1/3 spectacular innings in a bulk role while Grant Taylor recorded the final four outs as the Sox took a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series. Read more here.
Game 3: Guardians 9, White Sox 3
Gareth Mullins reacts after Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio drove in a run with a single during the ninth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the White Sox on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. The Sox lost 9-3 and will face the Guardians on Thursday in Game 4. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians players celebrate after defeating the White Sox, 9-3, in Game 3 in the AL Division Series at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. The White Sox lead the series 2-1. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox left fielder Randal Grichuk and Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas are unable to make a play on a double that scored 1 run by Cleveland Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio in the ninth inning during Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox players sit in the dugout during the night inning shortly before losing to the Guardians, 9-3, in Game 3 of the AL Division Series at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. The White Sox lead the series 2-1. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians first baseman Nathaniel Lowe rounds third base past Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas after a double by Cleveland Guardians second baseman Angel Genao in the ninth inning during in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians first baseman Nathaniel Lowe scores off a RBI double from second baseman Angel Genao during the ninth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the White Sox at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox designated hitter Randal Grichuk walks to the dugout after striking out in the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez drives in 2 runs on a triple in the eighth inning during Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas is unable to catch a ball thrown from the outfield in the eighth inning during Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox fans react after their 9-3 loss against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez pulls up at third base following his 2-run triple in the eighth inning during Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox designated hitter Randal Grichuk is unable to make a catch on a 2-run triple by Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez in the eighth inning in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas reacts after grounding out with the bases loaded to end the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 3 of the AL Division Series on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Fans react after White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas lined out to end the sixth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the Guardians on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. The Sox would lose 9-3 and will face the Guardians on Thursday in Game 4. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fan Jose Diaz holds a flag over his face during the sixth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Fans watch the White Sox play the Guardians during the eighth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel walks to the dugout after striking out in the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth strikes out to end the seventh inning against the Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
A Chicago White Sox fan waves the team flag during the seventh inning in Game 3 of the AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami strikes out in the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami strikes out in the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans cheer in the bleachers during Game 3 of an AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez slides into home before Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel can apply the tag in the fifth inning during Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth is congratulated in the double after an RBI double by Chicago White Sox center fielder Tristan Peters in the fourth inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas is out at second base after a double play as Cleveland Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio celebrates in the fifth inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox pitcher Hagen Smith walks to the dugout after a poor third inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians right fielder Jo Adell heads toward third base after a 3-run triple in the third inning during Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Hagen Smith watches at Cleveland third baseman José Ramírez comes around third base to score in the third inning of Game 3 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitching coach Zach Bove talks with pitcher Hagen Smith and catcher Kyle Teel during the third inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians left fielder Steven Kwan hits a RBI single during the third inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the White Sox at Rate Field Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox center fielder Tristan Peters celebrates his double in the fourth inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Gareth Mullins reacts after Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio drove in a run with a single during the ninth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the White Sox on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery reacts after striking out to end the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel walks to the dugout after striking out to end the third inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox center fielder Tristan Peters breaks his bat in the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel reacts after his RBI double in the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox’s Sam Antonacci is congratulated after scoring off of an RBI double by Kyle Teel in the first inning against the Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel hits a RBI double during the first inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami walks to the dugout after striking out in the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fan Dan Daly holds his 5-year-old son James Daly during the sixth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
A fan holds a Sweet Home Chicago sign as Chicago White Sox pitcher Sean Newcome takes the mound in the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Mike Vasil leads a dance before the game against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox fans cheer in the outfield during the playing of the National Anthem before their game against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Fans stand as players take the field before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox stand for the National Anthem before their game against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Peter Catizone wears a pope hat in the bleachers before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field, Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Actor Belmont Camelii reacts as he throws out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 3 of the AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Fans cheer in the stands before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field, Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable and Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt shake hands before Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Fans watch White Sox players warm up in the bullpen before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field, Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox fans hold signs before Game 3 of the AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Former Mayor Richard M. Daley in his seat before the White Sox take on the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel warms up in the bullpen before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field, Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Fans cheer in the stands before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field, Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Bob Stange carries a broom while tailgating before the White Sox play Game 3 of the American League Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Fans walk past the Red Line 35th Street/Sox station before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Fans gather at Cork & Kerry at The Park before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Douglas Outlaw waits as the first fan in line at Gate 3 before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Herman Mendez grills while tailgating before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field in Chicago on Oct. 7, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
A base is seen beside the field before Game 3 of the ALDS between the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
From left, wearing a homemade pope hat Dan Kozlowski high-fives George Jimenez while tailgating before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field, Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Chicago White Sox manager Will Venable walks to the dugout after batting practice for Game 3 of the ALDS against the Cleveland Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Melissa Flores, left, hugs Tammy Doyle at the Red Line 35th Street/Sox station before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Fans walk past the CTA Red Line 35th Street/Sox station before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Leaves that have turned red are seen on a tree outside Rate Field in Chicago on Oct. 7, 2026 as people wait for the gates to open for Game 3 of the ALDS between the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Guardians on Oct. 7, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Fans tailgate before the White Sox play Game 3 of the AL Division Series against the Guardians at Rate Field on Oct. 7, 2026, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
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Gareth Mullins reacts after Guardians shortstop Brayan Rocchio drove in a run with a single during the ninth inning of Game 3 in the AL Division Series against the White Sox on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, at Rate Field. The Sox lost 9-3 and will face the Guardians on Thursday in Game 4. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
The White Sox were aiming to party in front of their home fans. But the Guardians had other ideas.
The Guardians scored four runs in the third inning on the way to defeating the Sox 9-3 in Game 3 of the American League Division Series in front of a sellout crowd of 40,590 at Rate Field. Jo Adell had the big hit in the inning, driving in three runs with a triple to help the Guardians fight off elimination. Read more here.
Game 4: Guardians 9, White Sox 5
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth, right, and teammates wait out a pitching change as the Guardians take the lead in a six-run sixth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox infielders Miguel Vargas, from left, Colson Montgomery, Chase Meidroth and Munetaka Murakami wait out a pitching change as the Guardians take the lead in a six-run sixth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans watch as their team trails the Guardians in the seventh inning of Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez scores behind White Sox catcher Kyle Teel in the sixth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox reliever Grant Taylor exits in the sixth inning against the Guardians in Game 4 of an AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Guardian left fielder Angel Martinez is hit by a pitch from Anthony Kay in the top of the sixth inning of Game 4 against the White Sox in their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians second baseman Travis Bazzana scores a go-ahead run against the White Sox in the sixth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians second baseman Travis Bazzana scores a go-ahead run against the White Sox in the sixth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery can’t stop a hit by Cleveland Guardians pinch hitter Patrick Bailey that scores a run as the Guardians take the lead in the sixth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
The Guardians dugout celebrates after Jose Ramirez (11) hit a two-run home run in the top of the fifth inning against the White Sox in of Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians third baseman José Ramírez celebrates his two-run home run in the fifth inning against the White Sox in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox center fielder Brenton Doyle bring in a run with a sacrifice fly agianst the Cleveland Guardians in the fifth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas scores the go-ahead run behind Cleveland Guardians catcher Patrick Bailey in the fifth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami hits a single to load the bases during the bottom of the fifth inning of Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fan Juan Valenzuela cheers as their team rallies against the Cleveland Guardians in the fifth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde is removed from the game after allowing a Cleveland Guardians run in the fifth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas celebrates as he scores the go-ahead run against the Cleveland Guardians in the fifth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez celebrates his two-run home run in the fifth inning against the White Sox in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Braden Montgomery stops at the wall as the Cleveland Guardians bullpen celebrates a two-run home run by third baseman José Ramírez in the fifth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami yells after tagging out the Guardians left fielder Angel Martinez in a double play during the fourth inning of Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde allows a home run to Cleveland Guardians catcher Patrick Bailey in the fourth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians catcher Patrick Bailey runs the bases after hitting a solo homer in the top of the fifth inning of Game 4 against the White Sox in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans celebrate after their team scores against the Cleveland Guardians in the third inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth celebrates after hitting a double in the bottom of the third inning of Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci hits a sacrifice fly bringing in Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth who scored in the bottom of the third inning of Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians pitcher Parker Messick (77) falls while chasing a single from White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery (12) during the third inning of Game 4 in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami celebrates drawing a bases-loaded walk to score a run against the Cleveland Guardians in the third inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth scores past Guardians catcher Austin Hedges in the third inning of Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans cheer while their team loads the bases against the Cleveland Guardians in the third inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians pitcher Parker Messick is pulled from the game after allowing a run to the White Sox in the third inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde delivers to the Cleveland Guardians in the first inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde celebrates after getting the last out during the first inning of Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Cleveland Guardians left fielder Angel Martínez strikes out against White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde to end the top of the first inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians Parker Messick pitches during the first inning of Game 4 against the White Sox in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox manager Will Venable, right, takes pitcher Hagen Smith out in the first inning of Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Hagen Smith throws out the first pitch of Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Hagen Smith delivers the first pitch to the Cleveland Guardians in the first inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans cheer before the game against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans arrive to see their team face the Guardians in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans arrive for Game 4 of their AL Division Series against the Guardians on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Fans get excited before the White Sox take to the field for Game 4 against the Guardians in their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans arrive as a vendor sells flags before Game 4 against the Cleveland Guardians in their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans arrive to see their team face the Cleveland Guardians in Game 4 of their AL Division Series game on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field in Chicago. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Dressed as Pope Leo XIV, White Sox fan Paul Tisoncik arrives to see his team face the Cleveland Guardians in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
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White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth, right, and teammates wait out a pitching change as the Guardians take the lead in a six-run sixth inning in Game 4 of their AL Division Series on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, at Rate Field. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
The road to the American League Championship Series for the Chicago White Sox or Cleveland Guardians will include one more game at Progressive Field.
The Sox fell short in their attempt to win the AL Division Series for the second straight night, losing 9-5 to the Guardians in Game 4 on Thursday in front of a sellout crowd of 39,920 at Rate Field. Read more here.
Game 5: Guardians 2, White Sox 0
White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke stands on the mound after giving up a two-run home run to Guardians third baseman José Ramírez in the fourth inning of Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel stands as Guardians third baseman José Ramírez celebrates with teammate Steven Kwan after Ramirez hit a two-run home run in the fourth inning of Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami watches as Guardians third baseman José Ramírez celebrates as he rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run in the fourth inning of Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians third baseman José Ramírez hits a two-run home run in the fourth inning against the White Sox in Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Guardians third baseman José Ramírez hits a two-run home run in the fourth inning against the White Sox in Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
The White Sox stand for the national anthem ahead of Game 5 of the ALDS against the Guardians at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas, left, and first baseman Munetaka Murakami hang out on the field while warming up for Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox manager Will Venable, right, watches batting practice ahead of Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas laughs while taking fielding practice ahead of Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox right fielder Tristan Peters warms up with his teammates before Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox fans Steve Welsh and his son, Ethan, wait among Guardians fans before gates to Progressive Field opened for Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Workers prepare the infield at Progressive Field in Cleveland ahead of Game 5 of the ALDS between the White Sox and Guardians on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami comes out onto the field to warm up for Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
A young White Sox fan poses among a group of Guardians fans waiting to enter Progressive Field in Cleveland for Game 5 of the ALDS on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami, right,high-fives teammates while taking fielding practice ahead of Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas walks out onto the field to warm up for Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox players Luisangel Acuña, from left, Munetaka Murakami and Tristan Peters warm up for Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami comes out onto the field to warm up for Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
A lithograph of New Comiskey Park, now called Rate Field, hangs in the press box hallway at Progressive Field in Cleveland before the Guardians and White Sox battle in Game 5 of the ALDS on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox first baseman Munetaka Murakami arrives at Progressive Field in Cleveland ahead of Game 5 of the ALDS against the Guardians on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
An image of Guardians third baseman José Ramírez adorns the trunk of a car outside of Progressive Field in Cleveland before the Guardians battle the White Sox in game 5 of the ALDS on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
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White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke stands on the mound after giving up a two-run home run to Guardians third baseman José Ramírez in the fourth inning of Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland on Oct. 10, 2026. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
The Chicago White Sox couldn’t find sustained success at the plate all night as their improbable season ended with a 2-0 loss to the Cleveland Guardians in Game 5 of the American League Division Series in front of a sellout crowd of 36,889 at Progressive Field.
The Sox didn’t have a hit until two outs in the sixth, when Kyle Teel singled to right field against Guardians starter Gavin Williams. They finished with three hits and struck out 21 times. Read more here.
How we got here
White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery celebrates with teammates in the clubhouse after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox players, coaches and staff gather for a group photograph after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series to advance to the American League Division Series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox shortstop Luisangel Acuña celebrates with teammates in the clubhouse after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. ((John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth celebrates with teammates in the clubhouse after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Davis Martin celebrates with teammates in the clubhouse after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf talks to reporters in the clubhouse after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde, right, is congratulated by teammates after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde yells in celebration after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth celebrates while rounding the bases after hitting a three-run home run in the sixth inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth yells in celebration in the dugout after hitting a three-run home run in the sixth inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth rounds the bases after hitting a three-run home run in the sixth inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth (10) is congratulated by teammates after hitting a three-run home run in the sixth inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci catches a fly ball hit by Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez for an out in the fifth inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Huascar Brazobán (50) stands on the mound before being taken out of the game in the fifth inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox manager Will Venable hands the ball to pitcher Anthony Kay in the fifth inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Astros second baseman Jose Altuve is congratulated after hitting a solo home run against the White Sox in the fourth inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke watches the video replay of a solo home run by Astros second baseman Jose Altuve in the fourth inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Astros fans cheer as White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci grounds out in the fourth inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery heads to the dugout after striking out against the Astros in the fourth inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez is unable to catch a ball hit for a double by White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci in the first inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Astros pitcher Peter Lambert throws against the White Sox in the fourth inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas celebrates in the dugout after scoring on an Astros throwing error in the first inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel puts on the brakes at second base on an Astros fielding error in the first inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Astros left fielder Yordan Alvarez is unable to catch a ball hit for a double by White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci in the first inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox designated hitter Andrew Benintendi celebrates in the dugout after scoring on a single from center fielder Tristan Peters in the first inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke stands on the mound after giving up a solo home run to Astros right fielder Cam Smith in the second inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel swings for an RBI single against the Astros in the first inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci, left, gestures to teammates after hitting a double as Astros second baseman Jose Altuve motions to outfielders in the first inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Astros starting pitcher Hunter Brown takes a meeting on the mound in the first inning against the White Sox in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox center fielder Tristan Peters hits an RBI single in the first inning against the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox starting pitcher Sean Burke throws against the Astros in the first inning in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox pitcher Erick Fedde, center, looks around before the national anthem for Game 2 of the wild-card series against the Astros on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox catcher Kyle Teel exits the dugout to warm up for Game 2 of the wild-card series against the Astros on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
A White Sox fan holds up a jersey to hopefully add autographs on it before Game 2 of the wild-card series against the Astros on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas signs autographs before Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Fans reach for a tossed ball during batting practice before Game 2 of the wild-card series between the White Sox and Astros on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
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White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery celebrates with teammates in the clubhouse after a 7-3 win over the Astros in Game 2 of the wild-card series on Sept. 30, 2026, in Houston. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
The White Sox advanced to the AL Division Series, thanks to their two-game sweep of the Astros in Houston.
It was the White Sox’s first postseason series win since they swept the Astros in the 2005 World Series for their first championship in 88 years.