SoxFest Live Day 2 brings familiar themes, renewed energy

From player meet-and-greets to the late-night hangout, Saturday's event emphasized connection

Feb. 1, 2026 at 6:47pm

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Day 2 of SoxFest Live felt very familiar, with many of the same key talking points put out by GM Chris Getz and manager Will Venable the night before. However, the atmosphere did seem a bit different, as the sold-out crowd made it feel more like a celebration compared to the more intimate gathering on Friday. The VIP experience offered exclusive player photo opportunities and meet-and-greets, along with a late-night hangout that allowed White Sox staff, coaches, and players to mingle with fans in a more relaxed setting.

Why it matters

The reimagined SoxFest event aimed to create a more personal connection between players and fans, moving away from the formal Q&A format of previous years. This shift in approach reflects the organization's efforts to rebuild trust and enthusiasm among the fan base after recent struggles on the field.

The details

The VIP experience gave fans like Crystal O'Keefe and her son Hayden up-close access to players, allowing them to collect more autographs and have unscripted conversations. Players like pitcher Davis Martin also seemed excited to engage with fans in a more casual, interactive way. The overall atmosphere was positive, with many fans expressing renewed optimism about the team's direction and young talent.

  • SoxFest Live took place on February 2, 2026.
  • The event featured a VIP experience on the upper level in addition to general admission access on the lower level.

The players

Chris Getz

The general manager of the Chicago White Sox.

Will Venable

The manager of the Chicago White Sox.

Miguel Vargas

A player for the Chicago White Sox.

Davis Martin

A pitcher for the Chicago White Sox.

Bo Jackson

A former professional athlete who made an appearance at the VIP event.

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What they’re saying

“My son was able to collect more autographs and was especially excited to chat with Miguel Vargas.”

— Crystal O'Keefe (southsidesox.com)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The White Sox organization will continue to focus on building a positive clubhouse culture and connecting with their fan base through events like SoxFest.

The takeaway

The reimagined SoxFest event demonstrated the White Sox's efforts to rebuild trust and enthusiasm among their fans by emphasizing personal connections between players and supporters. This shift in approach reflects the organization's commitment to creating a more welcoming and engaging experience for the team's loyal fanbase.