In a tumultuous season that has been wrought with disappointment, the Chicago White Sox have taken a decisive step by parting ways with manager Pedro Grifol. The dismissal comes amid a dismal 28-89 record in the 2024 season, marking a continuation of the struggles seen in recent years.
Significant changes are sweeping through the White Sox organization. Alongside Grifol's departure, bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar have also been relieved of their duties. In an interim capacity, Grady Sizemore has been appointed to helm the team for the remainder of the 2024 season. The organization has stated that the search for a new, permanent manager will commence immediately, with an appointment expected after the season concludes.
A Season of Challenges and Changes
The staggering record is a testament to the woes the team has faced. The White Sox set a new franchise record for the longest losing streak this season, not once, but twice. The first streak extended 14 games from May 22 to June 6. The second streak, an unprecedented 21-game skid, was only recently broken. The team is on track to lose over 120 games this season, a historic low for the storied franchise.
Chris Getz, the newly appointed GM who began rebuilding the roster last offseason, acknowledged the dire situation, stating, "As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels." Despite the shake-up in the managerial and coaching staff, Getz expressed gratitude toward Grifol and his team, noting, "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."
Revisiting Pedro Grifol's Tenure
Grifol’s overall record with the White Sox stands at 89-190, a .319 winning percentage over two seasons. This follows the team's 2023 season, where they finished 61-101, and the 2022 season which concluded with a .500 record at 81-81. Grifol, who was part of the Kansas City Royals organization for a decade before joining the White Sox, reflected on his time with the team. "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," he shared. "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 Reconfigurations
The roster has also seen its share of changes this season. At the trade deadline on July 30, the White Sox traded Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham, signaling a strategic shift as the team aims to rebuild. This aligns with Getz’s vision for the future, which encompasses a comprehensive rebuild of both talent and morale within the clubhouse.
As the White Sox look to the next chapter, Grady Sizemore steps in as the interim manager, tasked with guiding the team through the remainder of the season. His role will be pivotal in stabilizing the team and laying the groundwork for the new permanent manager who will be named post-season.
Looking Forward
The White Sox’s current predicament underscores a pressing need for a renewed strategy and reinvigorated leadership. The forthcoming months will be crucial as the organization seeks to turn the tide and realign with the aspirations of the franchise and its fanbase. The development and induction of new energy around the team, as emphasized by Getz, will be essential in steering the team back on a competitive path.
For now, the White Sox face the reality of a challenging season and the task of rebuilding anew. The decisions made in the coming weeks will set the stage for the next era of White Sox baseball, hopefully one marked by resilience and resurgence.