The Chicago White Sox have decided to make a significant shift in their management, dismissing manager Pedro Grifol following a series of tough seasons. This decision comes with the team holding a dismal 28-89 record in the 2024 season, further magnified by setting a new franchise record for the longest losing streak twice this year.
A Season of Struggles
Grifol, who joined the White Sox after spending a decade with the Kansas City Royals organization, had an overall record of 89-190, yielding a .319 winning percentage over his two seasons with the team. The challenges have been significant for Grifol and his staff, but the team’s performance compelled a change.
Reflecting on the tenure, Chris Getz, the new GM who took charge of rebuilding the roster last offseason, expressed the sentiment shared by many within the organization. “As we all recognize, our team’s performance this season has been disappointing on many levels,” Getz stated. “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.”
Major Coaching Staff Shake-Up
The shake-up within the coaching staff didn't stop with Grifol. Bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar were also relieved of their duties. This wholesale change signifies an effort to reestablish a new culture within the clubhouse.
With the team on pace to lose more than 120 games this season, these moves are seen as crucial steps in revamping the team’s direction. The White Sox capped off the 2023 season with a 61-101 record, following an 81-81 finish in 2022, illustrating a decline that management could no longer overlook.
Interim Management and the Path Forward
Stepping in as the interim manager for the remainder of the 2024 season is Grady Sizemore. Once a standout player, Sizemore now faces the daunting task of steering a struggling team towards some semblance of stability while the organization begins its search for a permanent manager.
Grifol, meanwhile, leaves the team after two tumultuous seasons but maintains a reflective perspective on his role and contributions. “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,” Grifol reflected. “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.”
The White Sox's roster also saw notable changes ahead of the trade deadline, with Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham all moved on July 30. These trades are part of Getz's strategy to revamp the team's composition and prepare for future seasons with a fresh perspective.
Immediate and Long-term Considerations
The immediate priority for the White Sox is to identify a new permanent manager who will be named after the season concludes. Until then, Sizemore will have the responsibility of handling the team through this transitional period.
“Despite the on-field struggles, we appreciate the effort and professionalism Pedro and the staff brought to the ballpark every day,” Getz reiterated. The words underscore a respect for Grifol’s dedication but also a clear recognition that the performance necessitated a new direction.
The White Sox organization now stands at a critical juncture, with hopes that these significant changes can turn around the fortunes of a team that has faced a prolonged period of underachievement. Navigating through these trying times will require careful planning and clear vision as the White Sox strive to rebuild and reenergize moving forward.