The Chicago White Sox have made a significant move by parting ways with manager Pedro Grifol amidst a particularly challenging season. The team, currently holding a dismal 28-89 record in the 2024 season, is clearly in the midst of rebuilding and restructuring efforts under a new managerial direction.
A Season of Struggles
The White Sox have faced immense difficulties this year, cementing unfortunate milestones including setting a new record for the longest losing streak in franchise history twice. From May 22 to June 6, the team endured a 14-game losing streak, only to face another grueling 21-game losing streak that was recently snapped. With the team on pace to lose over 120 games this season, the need for drastic changes became inevitable. The organization decided it was time to transition to new leadership, placing Grady Sizemore as the interim manager for the remainder of the season.
Changes in the Coaching Staff
The shake-up didn't stop with Grifol. Bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar have also been relieved of their duties. The overhaul comes as the White Sox look to inject fresh energy and ideas into a franchise that has struggled to find consistency in recent years.
Chris Getz, the new GM who began rebuilding the roster last offseason, acknowledged the need for change. "As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels," said Getz. "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 and Future Plans
Pedro Grifol leaves the White Sox with an overall record of 89-190, translating to a .319 winning percentage over his two seasons at the helm. Prior to joining the White Sox, Grifol was part of the Kansas City Royals organization for a decade. Reflecting on his tenure, Grifol said, "I think I am [a good manager]. 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."
As the White Sox look toward the future, they have announced plans to immediately start the search for a new permanent manager. The decision is expected to be finalized after the season concludes, giving Sizemore the task of managing the team through this transitional period.
Roster Moves and Future Prospects
In addition to the managerial changes, the White Sox made strategic moves during the July 30 trade deadline, trading Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham. These trades are part of a broader strategy deployed by Getz to rebuild and strengthen the roster. The team’s goal is to foster long-term success and stability, a vision that contrasts sharply with the turbulent seasons of late.
Looking Ahead
The White Sox finished the 2023 season with a 61-101 record, following an 81-81 record in the 2022 season. These back-to-back challenging seasons have compounded the urgency for a turnaround. As the White Sox navigate through one of their roughest patches in recent history, the hope is that these changes will revitalize the team and create a more competitive atmosphere moving forward.
Fans and observers alike will be watching closely as Getz implements his vision and as Sizemore leads the team through the remainder of a tough season. The anticipation of a new managerial announcement after the season will be a focal point of off-season discussions and strategies as the franchise seeks a path back to competitiveness and success.