MLB Rumors: Dodgers' McCullough, Padres' Ellis Out of White Sox Manager Search

The Chicago White Sox appear to be narrowing down the team's search for a new manager.

According to ESPN's Jesse Rogers, Los Angeles Dodgers first base coach Clayton McCullough and San Diego Padres special assistant A.J. Ellis are both "out of the running" to become Chicago's skipper for the 2025 season.

The White Sox fired former manager Pedro Grifol in the middle of their 2024 campaign, replacing him with Grady Sizemore as the team wrapped up a 41-121 season.

Jon Heyman of the New York Post revealed that Ellis dropped out of the hiring process due to family reasons, saying that he was "grateful" for the interest from Chicago.

The White Sox are continuing to make progress in their search for a new manager, as Texas Rangers offensive coordinator and bench coach Donnie Ecker was no longer involved in the hunt despite some initial interest (via The Dallas Morning News' Evan Grant).

Chicago's top candidates for the role have started to become evident.

Heyman previously reported that Rangers bench coach Will Venable, former Los Angeles Angels manager Phil Nevin and Detroit Tigers bench coach George Lombard are considered "leading candidates" to fill the vacancy. Sizemore is also still in the running as an internal option.

The final decision by White Sox general manager Chris Getz may be soon. Getz is "aiming" to make his first managerial hire before MLB general managers are scheduled to meet in San Antonio on Nov. 4, per Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times.

Chicago will be looking to put a disastrous season in the rearview mirror, setting a new record for losses in a single year. The White Sox also made some unfortunate history by losing 21 consecutive games, tying an American League record.

Getz is already reportedly whittling down his options, and a final choice could be coming shortly.