White Sox Announce Grant Taylor to Open Friday’s Home Opener vs. Blue Jays

Chicago White Sox announce Grant Taylor will open Friday’s 2026 home opener at Guaranteed Rate Field, followed by Sean Burke vs. Toronto Blue Jays.

The Chicago White Sox will use a bullpen opener for Friday’s home opener at Rate Field, with right-hander Grant Taylor starting the game before turning it over to Sean Burke.

The team confirmed the pitching plan on Thursday.

Taylor, 27, has been used primarily in relief since arriving on the White Sox roster, but has experience opening two games in the big leagues last season. The former top prospect returned from Tommy John surgery in 2025 and has shown improved velocity, but is still looking to harness his command in both early regular-season appearances.

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Burke, 24, has been one of the more reliable young arms in the White Sox rotation through the first week of the season. The right-hander is expected to handle the bulk of the innings after Taylor.

The White Sox open their first homestand of 2026 against the Blue Jays on Friday afternoon. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. CT.