Chicago White Sox Dismiss Manager Pedro Grifol Amid Disastrous Season
The Chicago White Sox have made a significant change to their leadership, announcing the dismissal of manager Pedro Grifol. This decision comes during a tumultuous 2024 season, where the White Sox currently hold a dismal 28-89 record. The team is on track to exceed 120 losses this season, prompting the organization to take decisive action.
Grifol's tenure with the White Sox has been fraught with challenges. Since taking the helm, he has managed the team to an overall record of 89-190, translating to a .319 winning percentage over two seasons. The current season has seen the White Sox set a new record for the longest losing streak in franchise history—twice. The first streak, lasting 14 games, occurred from May 22 to June 6. More recently, a staggering 21-game losing streak was snapped, highlighting the difficulties faced under Grifol's stewardship.
Chris Getz, the new General Manager who began reshaping the roster last offseason, addressed the media regarding the team's decision. "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."
In addition to parting ways with Grifol, the White Sox have also relieved bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar of their duties. Stepping in as interim manager for the remainder of the 2024 season is Grady Sizemore. The organization has announced it will begin searching for a permanent manager immediately, with plans to name the new leader after the season concludes.
Reflecting on his time with the White Sox, 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."
The team's struggles have extended beyond managerial issues. The White Sox completed the 2023 season with a 61-101 record, following an 81-81 finish in 2022. At the trade deadline on July 30, the organization made several moves, including trading Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham, signaling a commitment to long-term rebuilding under Getz's direction.
While the announcement of a search for a new manager marks a turning point, the team's immediate future rests in the hands of Sizemore. As a former player known for his tenacity and skill, Sizemore now faces the daunting task of steering the White Sox through the remainder of this challenging season.
The changes in leadership and the push for a new direction are steps aimed at revitalizing a storied franchise that has struggled in recent years. Fans and the baseball community will be watching closely as the White Sox navigate this period of transition, hopeful for a brighter future and a return to competitive form.