Division Rival Reportedly Passed On Opportunity To Manage White Sox

The White Sox have officially named Will Venable the 44th manager in franchise history. While many considered Venable to be the best candidate, one of the White Sox reported finalists who was also highly sought withdrew himself from consideration.

During Vernable’s introductory press conference, White Sox general manager Chris Getz told reporters that the team had over 60 candidates for the managerial opening, which was eventually narrowed down to 20 once the interview process began.

Cleveland Guardians bench coach Craig Albernaz was one of the four finalists for the job along with interim manager Grady Sizemore, and former Angels Manager Phil Nevin, per CHSN’s Chuck Garfein. According to a report from Craig Mish, Albernaz and Venable were also the two finalists for the Miami Marlins job. The Marlins are the only other team in the MLB with a manager vacancy.

However, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that Albernaz withdrew his name from consideration for both the White Sox and Marlins jobs to remain in Cleveland. Passan adds that he is regarded by many front offices as a future big-league manager. It is still unclear when Albernaz dropped out of the running and if it had any impact on the White Sox final decision. But his decision to stay in Cleveland has now left the Miami Marlins without either of their top choices.