Don Cooper, Legendary White Sox Pitching Coach, Dies at 70

Don Cooper, a revered pitching coach who spent 33 years with the Chicago White Sox and was part of the 2005 World Series‑winning staff, died at 70. His family announced the death on Facebook, noting his passion for baseball and love for family. Cooper’s career spanned playing in the majors to coach…

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 24 Sep 2026 05:22:21 GMT

Don Cooper, the long‑time pitching coach who helped guide the Chicago White Sox to a World Series title in 2005, died Tuesday at the age of 70. The former New York native and former Major League player was announced to have passed away peacefully in Brentwood, Tennessee, by his family on Facebook. The post highlighted his fierce passion for baseball, his devotion to family and friends, and his faith in God, describing him as a man who “lived a life blessed by God.”

From New York to the Major Leagues

Cooper was born in New York and grew up in Woodside, a neighborhood in Queens. He attended Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School, where he excelled in both baseball and basketball. After high school, he enrolled at the New York Institute of Technology, continuing his dual‑sport career. In 1978, the New York Yankees selected him in the 17th round of the MLB draft. Three years later, he made his major‑league debut with the Minnesota Twins, and over the next few seasons he appeared for the Twins, Toronto Blue Jays and the Yankees.

While his playing career was modest—he pitched in 47 MLB games and posted a 4.38 ERA—Cooper’s love for the game led him to coaching. He began his coaching career in the White Sox farm system in 1987, a role that would last more than three decades. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the team’s major‑league pitching coach in 2002, a position he held for 18 seasons until 2020.

Coaching the 2005 World Series Team

Cooper’s tenure as pitching coach coincided with one of the franchise’s most memorable seasons. In 2005, the White Sox finished first in the American League Central and went on to win the World Series. The pitching staff, guided by Cooper, posted a historic run of four consecutive complete‑game victories in the ALCS—a feat not seen in the postseason since the 1928 Yankees. Cooper’s expertise in developing pitchers’ mechanics and mental approach was cited as a key factor in the team’s success. Former manager Ozzie Guillen, who led the team for eight seasons, praised Cooper on X, calling him “one of a kind” and crediting him with teaching him “so much about pitchers, pitching, and their mindset.”

Legacy and Impact

Cooper’s influence extended beyond the mound. He was known for his approachable demeanor, always available to lend an ear to players, coaches, and friends. His family, friends, and former players remember him as a mentor who combined technical knowledge with genuine care. He was also a devout Christian, often speaking about his faith and gratitude for his blessings both on and off the field.

After stepping down from the major‑league coaching position in 2020, Cooper remained a respected figure in the White Sox organization. He continued to mentor young pitchers in the minor‑league system and was a familiar presence at White Sox games and events. His sudden passing leaves a void for the organization and the baseball community at large.

What Happens Next?

The White Sox organization has not yet announced a replacement for the pitching coach position, but it is expected that an internal promotion or a seasoned veteran will fill the role in the coming weeks. The team’s front office will likely honor Cooper’s memory with a moment of silence at upcoming games and may consider a tribute in the next season’s opening ceremony.

Cooper’s family has requested privacy during this difficult time but will likely hold a memorial service in the coming months. Fans and former teammates have begun posting tributes on social media, celebrating his life and career.

Key facts

• Don Cooper died at 70 in Brentwood, Tennessee
• Spanned 33 years with the White Sox, 18 as pitching coach
• Key coach for 2005 World Series champions
• Praised by Ozzie Guillen and many players
• White Sox yet to name a replacement

Why it matters

Don Cooper’s death marks the loss of a foundational figure in one of baseball’s most iconic coaching staffs, whose influence shaped a championship‑winning team and countless pitchers’ careers.

Frequently asked questions

What teams did Don Cooper play for?

He played for the Minnesota Twins, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Yankees.

When did he join the White Sox organization?

He began coaching in the White Sox farm system in 1987.

How many seasons did he serve as the major‑league pitching coach?

He served 18 seasons, from 2002 to 2020.

What was his role in the 2005 World Series?

He was the pitching coach, guiding the staff to historic performances.

Where did he pass away?

He died in Brentwood, Tennessee.

Sources

• [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Don Cooper, NY native and beloved World Series-winning White Sox coach, dead at 70”