White Sox Name Shane Smith as 5th Straight Opening Day Starter

Smith quotes former President Roosevelt as he prepares to take the mound on Opening Day for the rebuilding White Sox.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Chicago White Sox have named Shane Smith as their Opening Day starter for the 2026 season, marking the fifth straight year the team has had a different pitcher take the hill on Opening Day. Smith, who is quoting former President Theodore Roosevelt, is hoping to help the White Sox bounce back from several difficult seasons that saw the team lose at least 100 games.

Why it matters

The White Sox have struggled in recent years, but are hoping a new-look roster and Opening Day starter can provide a spark as they aim to return to contention in the American League. Smith's quote from Roosevelt suggests a philosophical approach as he takes on the responsibility of leading the team on Opening Day.

The details

Shane Smith will be the White Sox's fifth different Opening Day starter in as many seasons, following Lucas Giolito, Dylan Cease, Garrett Crochet, and Sean Burke. Smith is embracing the opportunity, quoting former President Theodore Roosevelt by saying "I try not to compare things. Comparison is a thief of joy." The White Sox made some notable offseason moves, trading star outfielder Luis Robert Jr. and signing Japanese infielder Munetaka Murakami to help revamp their roster.

  • The White Sox play their first spring training game on Sunday, March 9, 2026 against the Kansas City Royals.
  • Shane Smith will take the mound as the White Sox's Opening Day starter on March 26, 2026.

The players

Shane Smith

The Chicago White Sox's Opening Day starting pitcher for the 2026 season.

Munetaka Murakami

A Japanese infielder the White Sox signed as a free agent in the offseason, expected to help lead the team's revamped offense.

Will Venable

The manager of the Chicago White Sox, who has praised Murakami's professionalism and adaptability.

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What they’re saying

“I try not to compare things. Comparison is a thief of joy.”

— Shane Smith, White Sox Opening Day Starter (MLB.com)

“I'm really happy how it went, without any injuries. I had butterflies inside me the first few minutes of it. But after I started fielding and I got an at-bat, I felt a bit more comfortable and felt myself.”

— Munetaka Murakami (Associated Press)

“This guy is so committed and such a professional. We've asked him to do some things that he hasn't necessarily been accustomed to and how he prepares and his adaptability and flexibility to do those things has been awesome. That adjustability gives you confidence that he's going to be able to go out there and make adjustments throughout the year.”

— Will Venable, White Sox Manager (Associated Press)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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