The Chicago White Sox have made significant changes to their coaching staff, starting with the dismissal of manager Pedro Grifol. The decision comes amid a tumultuous 2024 season where the White Sox currently hold a disheartening 28-89 record.
A History of Struggles
The recent moves should not come as a surprise to anyone familiar with the team's recent performance. In the 2023 season, the White Sox finished with a 61-101 record, a disappointing outcome considering their 81-81 finish in 2022. This season, the team has already made history, albeit for the wrong reasons, setting a new record for the longest losing streak in franchise history twice. A 14-game skid from May 22 to June 6 was followed by a staggering 21-game losing streak that has only recently been snapped.
The team’s dismal performance has put them on pace to lose over 120 games, a scenario that clearly set off alarms within the organization.
Leadership Changes
Grady Sizemore has been appointed as the interim manager for the remainder of the 2024 season. Alongside Grifol, bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar have also been relieved of their duties. The substantial reshuffle underscores the urgency with which the organization is looking to right the ship.
Chris Getz, the new General Manager who began the process of rebuilding the roster last offseason, commented on the state of affairs: "As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels." He went on to add, "Despite the on-field struggles and lack of success, we appreciate the effort and professionalism Pedro and the staff brought to the ballpark every day. These two seasons have been very challenging. Unfortunately, the results were not there, and a change is necessary as we look to our future and the development of a new energy around the team."
Grifol's Tenure
Pedro Grifol, who took the helm after a decade with the Kansas City Royals organization, accumulated an overall record of 89-190, translating to a .319 winning percentage over his two seasons with the White Sox. His tenure was marked by persistent difficulties and an inability to turn the tide for the struggling team.
Addressing his departure, Grifol reflected on his capability as a manager: "I think I am. I really do. And I think managing is motivating people to play and work hard every single day. I think managing is preparing and making good decisions and serving people and including people. It's not up for me to decide. I don't make decisions on whether I'm a good manager or not. That's for other people to decide."
Roster Moves and Future Planning
One of the key decisions during Grifol's tenure was the trade of Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham at the July 30 trade deadline. These moves indicate the focus on a long-term rebuild, spearheaded by Getz, who is keen on reshaping the team's roster decisively.
The White Sox have announced that they will start searching for a new permanent manager immediately. While Grady Sizemore will manage the team through this transitional period, a new permanent manager will only be named after the season concludes. This proactive measure suggests that the organization is intent on finding the right leadership to guide the team out of its current woes.
As the White Sox move forward, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the new management team steers the franchise. With significant changes already underway, the hope is that a new direction and renewed energy will pave the way for future success.