White Sox Win First Postseason Series Since 2005
Chicago defeated the Houston Astros in the 2026 Wild Card Series, marking the franchise's first postseason series victory in 21 years.
Chicago's White Sox defeated the Houston Astros in the 2026 Wild Card Series, securing the franchise's first postseason series win since 2005. The Sox led every inning of the two-game sweep, scoring first in both contests and holding the Astros to limited offense.
Manager Mitch Venable kept the same nine-player lineup for both games, making only a single batting-order change that resulted in a three-run home run by Chase Meidroth in Game 2. The team's bullpen, which has been a strength throughout the regular season, handled the Astros' hitters effectively, while Houston relied on relievers such as Bryan King and Bennett Sousa after losing left-hander Steven Okert.
The victory gives Chicago its first home postseason game at Guaranteed Rate Field this season and positions the White Sox among the league's top four teams at the end of the Wild Card round. The win also leaves the city’s baseball conversation dominated by the White Sox, as the Cubs were eliminated earlier in the National League bracket.
"It will probably be loud as shit," Houston reliever Bennett Sousa said after the series, referring to the anticipated atmosphere at the upcoming home game.
Analysts noted that the Sox's roster, while lacking depth in starting pitching, compensated with versatile relievers and a consistent defensive lineup. The performance suggests the team may be well-positioned for the next round of the postseason despite earlier concerns about roster construction.