White Sox Anthem Singer Collapses on Field Before Game

Gerald Chaney was 'alert' and recovering after experiencing a medical emergency while singing.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:38pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting a baseball player collapsing on the field, with the crowd and stadium blurring into the background, conveying the raw emotion and tension of the moment.A dramatic scene as a beloved anthem singer's medical emergency disrupts the pregame festivities, sparking concern and a quick response from the team and medical staff.Chicago Today

Longtime Chicago White Sox anthem performer Gerald Chaney collapsed on the field at Guaranteed Rate Field before the team's game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday. Chaney was singing 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' as part of the team's 'Jackie Robinson Day' ceremony when he experienced a medical emergency and was tended to by medical personnel before being transported to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Why it matters

Anthem singers are a beloved part of the gameday experience for many sports teams, and this incident highlights the potential health risks they face while performing. The White Sox and their fans were understandably concerned for Chaney's wellbeing, and the team's quick response to provide medical care was crucial.

The details

Chaney collapsed after briefly pausing his performance of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.' He was on the field for several minutes receiving treatment from EMTs before being stretchered off. Chaney was also scheduled to sing 'The Star Spangled Banner' after his initial performance.

  • Chaney collapsed on Wednesday, April 16, 2026 before the White Sox game against the Tampa Bay Rays.

The players

Gerald Chaney

The longtime anthem performer for the Chicago White Sox, who has been singing at sporting events in the city since the 1990s.

Will Venable

The manager of the Chicago White Sox, who expressed concern for Chaney's wellbeing and praised the team's medical response.

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What they’re saying

“Scary stuff, and really just hopeful that he was all right. I was really glad to hear that he is doing well, but obviously a scary moment. Everyone did a great job in responding and did the best to make sure he was all right. So, really good news to hear that he is all right. And yeah, I think that's the most important thing.”

— Will Venable, White Sox Manager

What’s next

The White Sox have not provided any updates on Chaney's condition or prognosis, but they are likely monitoring his recovery and evaluating any changes to their pregame ceremonies going forward.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential health risks that anthem singers and other performers face while on the field, and underscores the importance of having robust medical protocols and emergency response plans in place at sporting events.