The Chicago White Sox return to Guaranteed Rate Field on Monday, August 24, 2026, for a 7:40 PM ET matchup against the Texas Rangers. Kumar Rocker gets the ball for Texas in what figures to be a pivotal regular season contest on the South Side. The Sox have yet to name a starter of their own, adding some intrigue to the pitching picture. Chicago Sports Network carries the game locally, with ESPN Chicago WMVP 1000 AM on the radio dial for fans who prefer to listen.

White Sox vs. Rangers Pitching Matchup: Kumar Rocker Starts for Texas

The big name on the mound Monday belongs to the Rangers. Kumar Rocker, the hard-throwing right-hander, draws the start for Texas. Specific ERA and win-loss figures for Rocker were not available heading into this contest, so we'll let his performance do the talking once first pitch arrives. On the Chicago side, the Sox had not announced a probable starter as of preview time. That's a storyline worth tracking — whoever Chris Richard's staff sends to the hill will face a Rangers lineup that travels well.

Chicago White Sox Starting Lineup for August 24

Manager's have their nine set on the Sox side. Here's how Chicago lines up Monday night:

• 1. Sam Antonacci, LF
• 2. Munetaka Murakami, 1B
• 3. Miguel Vargas, 3B
• 4. Andrew Benintendi, DH
• 5. Braden Montgomery, RF
• 6. Colson Montgomery, SS
• 7. Chase Meidroth, 2B
• 8. Tristan Peters, CF
• 9. Drew Romo, C

Munetaka Murakami slots into the two-hole behind Antonacci, giving the lineup a left-handed bat with genuine power early in the order. Miguel Vargas hits third, with Andrew Benintendi protecting him as the cleanup designated hitter. The Braden Montgomery and Colson Montgomery pairing in the five and six spots gives this lineup a young, athletic core in the middle of the order. Chase Meidroth at second base and Drew Romo behind the dish round out a lineup that has both upside and questions to answer.

Keys to Watch at Guaranteed Rate Field

• Mystery Starter: The Sox not naming a probable pitcher heading into game day is the single biggest variable Monday. Whether it's a reliable arm or a bullpen game will shape Chicago's chances significantly against a Rangers club coming to town.
• Murakami's Impact: The Japanese slugger batting second is a statement. How Murakami handles Rocker's stuff early in the game could set the tone for the entire lineup.
• Colson Montgomery's Development: The young shortstop batting sixth is one of the more interesting players to track on this roster. His plate discipline and ability to make contact against a power arm like Rocker is a subplot worth watching.
• Rocker's Command: Rocker has the raw stuff to be dominant, but the key for the Sox will be working counts and making him work deep into counts. Patience at the plate could be Chicago's best weapon.

Prediction: Rangers Edge a Close One

Without knowing who Chicago sends to the mound, it's difficult to install the Sox as favorites here. Rocker is a talented arm, and Texas is capable of stringing together enough offense to make things uncomfortable. That said, Guaranteed Rate Field is a factor, and a lineup featuring Murakami and Benintendi has real damage potential. Give the edge to Texas in a close game, but don't be surprised if this one comes down to the final few outs. First pitch is set for 7:40 PM ET. Be there.