The Chicago White Sox have progressed to the American League Division Series following a two-game sweep of the Houston Astros. This marks their first postseason series win since they swept the Astros during the 2005 World Series to capture their first championship in 88 years. The upcoming challenge is a best-of-five ALDS against the Cleveland Guardians. The Guardians clinched the AL Central title by a one-game margin over the Sox, securing their third consecutive division title and seventh in the past eleven years.

Sox vs. Astros: Series Recap

The White Sox kicked off the American League wild-card series against the Astros with strong performances on the mound. Game 1 highlighted the resilience of both teams’ bullpens. The Sox emerged victorious with a 6-3 win on September 29, 2026, in front of 34,011 fans at Daikin Park.

Shortstop Colson Montgomery and second baseman Chase Meidroth, key figures in the victory, celebrated with their teammates after the game. The win was seen as a significant opening act in their postseason journey, setting the tone for the series.

Game Highlights

“This is just the start,” said player Munetaka Murakami, who prepared to lead the team in his first MLB postseason.

Game 2: White Sox 7, Astros 3

The Sox continued their strong performance in Game 2, jumping to a quick start with four runs in the first inning. Despite the Astros narrowing the score with runs in the initial innings, Chase Meidroth provided breathing room for the Sox with a decisive three-run home run in the sixth inning. Jordan Hicks and Erick Fedde solidified the victory with two shutout innings each, concluding the series with a sweep.

Post-game celebrations saw Montgomery and his teammates jubilant after ensuring their advance to the next round. The victory also marked a milestone for the team owner, with widespread support observed even among traditionally skeptical fans.

The Journey to the Playoffs

The White Sox’s journey to the playoffs is remarkable, having emerged from three consecutive seasons with over 100 losses. They clinched their playoff berth with a 9-1 victory against the Royals on September 24, 2026, in Kansas City.

Third baseman Miguel Vargas expressed the triumph as a significant achievement for both the team and the organization, describing the current squad as uniquely cohesive and enthusiastic.

Overcoming losses of 101 in 2023, a record-setting 121 in 2024, and 102 last season, the Sox have made a storybook turnaround by reaching the postseason, defying all odds.