The Chicago White Sox are shaking up their coaching staff once again. During an appearance on *Foul Territory* on Tuesday, White Sox manager Will Venable revealed that Walker McKinven will join the team as the new bench coach. McKinven previously served as the Milwaukee Brewers’ Run Prevention Coordinator.
McKinven, a 35-year-old native of the Chicagoland area, will take over for interim bench coach Doug Sission. He brings a wealth of experience from his nine years with the Brewers organization, where he held various roles, including video scout, Major League Strategy Coach, Associate Pitching and Catching Coach, and most recently, Run Prevention Coordinator.
The White Sox have struggled with defensive execution in recent seasons, an area where Venable hopes McKinven can make an immediate impact. McKinven’s background in pregame preparation, scouting, and defensive strategy will be key. Under his guidance, the Brewers ranked third in defensive runs saved last season with 27, while the White Sox lagged behind at 29th with -34. His expertise could address the team’s glaring need for attention to detail and better defensive performance.
McKinven’s hiring is part of a broader overhaul of the White Sox coaching staff, following a disappointing season that led to the dismissal of manager Pedro Grifol, bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar. Grady Sizemore stepped in as interim manager for the final 45 games, but the team struggled, finishing 13-32 during his tenure.
While Venable has confirmed he will remain on the staff in a different role, McKinven’s addition signals a fresh approach for the White Sox as they aim to rebound in 2024.
