Jerry Reinsdorf's Enduring Ownership of the Chicago White Sox
In January 1981, Jerry Reinsdorf assumed control of the Chicago White Sox, purchasing the club from Bill Veeck for a reported $20 million. This marked the beginning of a remarkably enduring tenure that has now spanned more than 40 years. Reinsdorf, now 88 years old, has left a significant mark on the franchise — both for the highs and the lows.
Challenging Times for the Franchise
Projected to finish the 2024 season with a historically poor record of 38-124, the White Sox are on the verge of surpassing the 1962 New York Mets' modern record of 120 losses. This comes on the heels of a record-setting 21 consecutive losses, a streak that highlights the team's ongoing struggles.
Adding to the turmoil, Reinsdorf made a series of drastic changes last August, dismissing vice president Ken Williams and general manager Rick Hahn. Williams joined the organization back in 2000, while Hahn served as general manager for over a decade. Their ouster was a clear signal of a new direction, albeit one that hasn't yet yielded positive results.
Manager Pedro Grifol was also shown the door after posting a dismal 89-192 record. In a somewhat controversial move, Chris Getz was appointed as the new general manager without conducting an external search. The sweeping changes have done little to instill confidence among the fanbase, with one veteran baseball evaluator remarking, "The fanbase should be up in arms. They have zero chance to be successful with these changes."
Building and Maintaining Home Turf
Guaranteed Rate Field has been the home of the White Sox since it opened in 1991. The ballpark was constructed at a cost of $137 million, a burden borne by Illinois taxpayers. Additionally, the state pays the White Sox $5 million annually for stadium repairs and maintenance. Despite this substantial public investment, Reinsdorf has expressed a desire for a new, largely publicly funded ballpark, an idea that draws its share of controversy.
His tenure is also marked by moments of brinkmanship. Reinsdorf once threatened to move the team to St. Petersburg, Florida, as part of his negotiating tactics. Reflecting on that period, he said, "A savvy negotiator creates leverage. People had to think we were going to leave Chicago."
Persistent Vision Despite Mixed Results
Over 44 seasons under Reinsdorf's stewardship, the White Sox have made it to the postseason seven times and claimed a World Series title in 2005. Yet, the team has never signed a player to a contract worth at least $100 million, a distinction they share with the Oakland A’s. This cautious financial strategy has often attracted criticism, particularly as the team grapples with its recent struggles.
Reinsdorf views his ownership of the franchise through a unique lens. "I've always looked at the ownership of a baseball franchise as a public trust, maybe even a charitable thing. I'm serious about that," he said. This perspective underscores his commitment, even as the team's performance has oscillated over the years.
However, the future remains uncertain. Reinsdorf has indicated that after his passing, his son Michael may have an obligation to sell the team. "When I'm gone, (son Michael) will have an obligation to do what's best (for the other investors). That likely means putting the team up for sale… The team will be worth more out of town," Reinsdorf stated, suggesting that the White Sox’s ties to Chicago might not be permanent.
Broadcast Changes and Future Prospects
Looking forward, the White Sox's broadcast landscape is set to change, with Nashville-based Standard Media Group slated to take over the broadcasting of the team’s games. This shift could alter the way fans engage with the team, though it’s yet another reminder of the evolving nature of the franchise under Reinsdorf's ownership.
Despite the myriad of challenges and changes, Reinsdorf's passion for the game remains undiminished. "I didn't get into baseball to make money. Baseball is my religion. I'm happy to break even," he affirmed. It's a sentiment that encapsulates his complex legacy: one of a savvy businessman and a dedicated steward of one of baseball's storied franchises.