Former White Sox Pitching Coach Don Cooper Died
The long-time Chicago coach, who led the 2005 staff to a World Series title, passed away at age 70.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Baseball
Don Cooper, a cornerstone of the Chicago White Sox coaching staff for over three decades, died on September 22, 2026, at age 70. His passing was confirmed by the team and his family.
Why it matters
Cooper spent 33 seasons within the White Sox organization, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the franchise's modern era. He is best remembered for guiding the pitching staff of the 2005 team that ended the club's 88-year championship drought.
Cooper dedicated 33 seasons to the Chicago organization, including 18 years as the major-league pitching coach. His 2005 postseason staff famously threw 4 consecutive complete games during their championship run.
The players
Don Cooper
He was a career coach who spent 33 seasons in the Chicago White Sox organization.
Chicago White Sox
This is the professional baseball team based in Chicago that employed Cooper for over three decades.
The details
The Chicago White Sox issued a public statement confirming the death of the long-time coach, who served the franchise from 1988 through 2020. His family also shared the news through a statement on Facebook.
Timeline
Don Cooper coached for the Chicago White Sox from 1988 to 2020.
Cooper coached the World Series champion team in 2005.
Don Cooper died on September 22, 2026.
The Chicago White Sox confirmed the death on September 23, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Cooper's influence remains tied to the 2005 Chicago White Sox World Series victory, a feat that defines the franchise's historical standing. His death closes a chapter on a 33-season tenure that was central to the team's identity throughout the modern era.
Cooper’s tenure as pitching coach for 18 seasons leaves a lasting legacy on the development of numerous pitchers who wore the Chicago uniform. His death marks the loss of a primary strategist behind the club's only championship-winning rotation in the 21st century.
The takeaway
Cooper served as a defining figure in Chicago baseball history through his three-decade commitment to player development. Fans and the organization reflect on his career as a standard for longevity and championship-level success.
What happens next
Funeral arrangements will be communicated once they have been established by the family.
Further reading
For more on the franchise, visit the Baseball section.
