White Sox solidify Opening Day rotation
No surprises, just a mix of promise and pressure across Chicago’s starting five
Anthony Kay provides a lefty look with bite, balance, and just enough edge to keep hitters guessing. | (David Durochik/Getty Images) Will Venable told reporters on Tuesday that Chicago’s Opening Day rotation is set, and there is nothing here that’s unexpected. Will Venable sets the White Sox Opening Day rotation: Game 1: Shane Smith Game 2: Sean Burke Game 3: Anthony Kay Game 4: Davis Martin Game 5: Erick Fedde — Brooke Fletcher (@BrookeFletcher) March 17, 2026 Shane Smith comes off a strong rookie campaign to head the rotation, eyeing a second All-Star nomination and looking to improve upon a strong 7-8 record, 3.
81 ERA, and 1. 20 WHIP. If Smith can keep his performance at a similar level and tack on a few more starts, he’ll take significant pressure off a bullpen that now needs more help than expected.
Last year’s Opening Day starter Sean Burke gets the No. 2 spot, which is a strong testament to Venable’s confidence in him. His six quality starts and ability to pitch deep into games make him a logical choice to back up Smith, helping build in a lighter workload for relievers.
Anthony Kay, slotting in third, is not at all shocking upon closer inspection. His lefty arm breaks up the two straight righty starters. Additionally, his reformed sinker ball and emergence as a strikeout pitcher from playing in Japan offer a dynamic and natural deviation from Smith and Burke’s styles.