Chicago White Sox somehow not ranked last in ESPN’s latest power rankings

The Chicago White Sox opened some eyes last week in their series against the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite getting off to a woeful 1-5 start, Chicago was able to sweep the defending American League Champions. While no one expected or expects the White Sox to win many games in 2026, it was a sign that brighter days may be ahead on the South side.

Unfortunately, after improving to 4-5 with their three consecutive wins over the Blue Jays, Chicago dropped their next three games as they were swept by the Baltimore Orioles.

Now 4-8, the White Sox (once again) are tied for the second-worst record in Major League Baseball. Only the 4-9 Seattle Mariners are worse.

The Chicago White Sox come in 29th on ESPN’s latest power ranking

Every week, ESPN releases their power rankings of all 30 MLB teams. Over the past several years, it has become commonplace for the White Sox to be at or near the bottom of these lists. Somehow, despite their poor record, they are not ranked last this week, but they are ranked below the Mariners, the only MLB team with a worse record than them:

“Shane Smith, Chicago’s only All-Star last season, was given the Opening Day nod this year. On Wednesday, after three rough outings, he was optioned to Triple-A Charlotte. The right-hander gave up 12 runs (10 earned) across 8⅓ innings in those three starts.

“He had his best outing Tuesday against the Orioles, holding them to one hit and no runs with eight strikeouts, but he went just 3⅔ innings, threw 99 pitches and issued five walks. Ultimately, the White Sox decided it was best for him to regain his previous form in the minors.”

The only team ranked below Chicago is the Colorado Rockies, who are 6-6. Incredibly, the Mariners are ranked seventh by ESPN despite their 4-9 ranking. The sports media company seems to think that Seattle is close to turning it around and will emerge as one of the league’s best teams.

As for the White Sox, the demotion of Shane Smith to Triple-A is just a picture of what has gone wrong with their season thus far. While it was the right move given his early struggles, it was nonetheless a disappointment because the team had such high hopes for him.

Frankly, the same could be said for just about every player on this roster save Munetaka Murakami.

More Chicago White Sox news from ChiCity Sports

• White Sox player addresses slow start to the 2026 MLB season
• White Sox exec explains decision to demote Shane Smith
• White Sox get positive news on Austin Hays injury

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