In a move that many speculated was coming, the Chicago White Sox have relieved manager Pedro Grifol of his duties amid a disastrous 2024 season. With the team holding a dismal 28-89 record, the organization has decided to shake up the coaching staff in hopes of turning the franchise's fortunes around.
A Disappointing Season
The White Sox have indeed had a season to forget. Currently on pace to lose more than 120 games, the team has set a new record for the longest losing streak in franchise history—twice. The first 14-game losing streak occurred from May 22 to June 6, and was followed by a grueling 21-game losing streak that was snapped only recently.
This season's struggles come on the heels of two lackluster campaigns. The White Sox finished the 2023 season with a 61-101 record, which followed a .500 season in 2022 where they went 81-81. Over two seasons, Pedro Grifol's overall record as manager stands at a disappointing 89-190, which translates to a .319 winning percentage. Grifol joined the organization after spending a decade with the Kansas City Royals.
Leadership Changes
Bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar have also been given their walking papers. Taking the helm as interim manager for the remainder of the season is Grady Sizemore. Chris Getz, who began his role as GM last offseason, has been tasked with finding a new permanent manager, a search that will begin immediately but won't conclude until after the season ends.
"As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels," stated Chris Getz. Despite the on-field struggles, Getz took a moment to acknowledge the effort and professionalism Grifol and his staff brought 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," Getz added.
A Look Back at Grifol’s Tenure
Pedro Grifol's appointment as manager came with high hopes, but his tenure has been marred by underperformance and a lack of consistency. Reflecting on his time with the White Sox, Grifol commented, "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."
Despite this self-assuredness, the team's performance under Grifol fell far short of expectations, leading to changes not just in management but across the entire coaching staff. The White Sox also made some roster moves this season, trading Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham at the July 30 trade deadline, signaling a willingness to rebuild and invest in a more successful future.
Future Prospects
Grady Sizemore will lead the team during this transitional period. Although the current season continues to be challenging, the franchise aims to start a new chapter next year with a fresh managerial perspective. The announcement of a new permanent manager will be made after the season concludes, giving the front office ample time to conduct a thorough search.
For White Sox fans, the recent shakeup in leadership offers a glimmer of hope amid what has been an otherwise bleak period. With a new GM in Chris Getz and interim manager Grady Sizemore at the helm, the White Sox are clearly committed to stepping out of the shadow of recent disappointments and building a team that can compete at the highest level once more.