Will Venable outlines the plans for the White Sox's high-stakes catching competition

If you have not been paying attention lately, the Chicago White Sox have been gathering elite catchers over the years. They now come into the 2026 season with a backstop trio of Korey Lee, Edgar Quero, and Kyle Teel. 

All three are extremely talented and could be starters on plenty of other teams across MLB. They need more consistent playing time to develop as they should. 

So, Venable has quite the problem on his hands. How does he allow these catchers to develop without taking at-bats and innings away from the others?

MORE: White Sox urged to prioritize perfecting the development of their top pitching prospects

Will Venable outlines the plan for the White Sox's high-stakes catching competition

As pitchers and catchers have reported this week, we are getting closer and closer to the season starting. Front offices are starting to navigate their rosters, and that is no different with the White Sox. 

Manager Will Venable spoke with reporters early on Friday, showcasing how he will use his backstop this season, via MLB.com.

"We do view Teel as an everyday guy. But at the catching position, we know that doesn't actually mean you're in there every day. It's a demanding role, and Edgar is a guy that we like to bat against lefties, so there are DH opportunities for him. He is going to be able to catch back there as well. There should be plenty of at-bats for those guys."

For Lee, the question is still unanswered. He is out of minor league options, so the White Sox must use or lose him. 

He could be a primary late-inning defensive replacement, which would free up Teel and Quero. However, he is a true right-handed power hitter, unlike Teel, who hits lefty, and Quero, who is a switch-hitter, but Venable favors Quero against lefties.

It may not be glorious, but there are still ways Lee can be involved if the club decides to carry three catchers.

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