Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf issued an apology as the team’s historically bad season ends with October games starting soon. The team recorded 121 losses, the most losses in modern MLB history since the 1962 New York Mets.
The White Sox ended the season with a 41-121 record with five wins in their last six games. Reinsdorf claimed they are striving for better in 2025 and changes are already underway to avoid any record-breaking further “failure” in the future.
He took on himself saying it’s his responsibility for the team’s performance, labeling 2024 as an “embarrassing season”. He thanked the fans for their continuous support and said it’s their right to be frustrated and angry about the team’s record this year.
By all measures, our on-field performance this season was a failure. As the leader of this organization, that is my ultimate responsibility. There are no excuses. I want to thank you for continuing to support the team throughout what was an embarrassing season. You all deserved better. This season’s performance was completely unacceptable and the varying reactions and emotions from our fanbase are completely understandable.
Jerry Reinsdorf on X.
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) September 29, 2024
In the statement, Jerry Reinsdorf included that they’ll be looking deeper into player development, free markets, and even on the managerial side. Changes in personnel are already underway and the fans will see quite some significant changes in the future. Understanding the skepticism from the fans, Reinsdorf further noted,
Whether said out loud or written in a statement, words are easy…we need to show our progress through action, and I commit to you that everyone associated with the White Sox is focused on returning this organization to the level of success we all expect and desire…Every loss this season — every blown save, every defensive miscue, every shutout, every sweep — hurt. It was a long, painful season for us all.
Jerry Reinsdorf on X.
Through thick and thin, the ups and downs, one thing that has remained constant is the fan support. Impassioned and enduring, we appreciated your continued devotion to the White Sox this season. pic.twitter.com/3NgPBjlshx
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) September 29, 2024
He said that, as a baseball fan himself, he wants to see a Chicago White Sox transform into a team that can aim for championship matches. With fans frustrated, and hurt, he hopes to gain their trust with time and positive changes once again.
White Sox manager Grady Sizemore proud of team’s effort
Despite the unfortunate outcome, Chicago White Sox manager Grady Sizemore is proud of the team’s effort, especially in the last few months and in the last few games. “We can build from this and get better,” he commented, understanding how the record hurt all the people involved.
General manager Chris Getz said that they are considering Sizemore for a full-time job. Even Jerry Reinsdorf said that finalizing Sizemore’s contract is the “organization’s most important decision in the coming months.”
Grady Sizemore took over as interim manager after Pedro Grifol got fired on August 8. Since a change in personnel, the team apparently showed more fight and energy as per the players themselves.
I’m committed to the team. I want to come back and just be a part of the turnaround. It’s been a tough year but I have enjoyed my time here and I’ve enjoyed working with the guys. I’m not ready to just move on from the team and the organization. I want to do everything I can. Whatever role that is, I want to be part of this being turned around.
Grady Sizemore as per Scott Merkin of MLB.
“Record aside the guys kept fighting, putting the work in, trying to get better,” Grady Sizemore said. “And this last stretch was really good. Just build the momentum, end on a positive, and coming together.”
— Daryl Van Schouwen (@CST_soxvan) September 29, 2024
He further complemented the team’s last stretch saying it was remarkable how the players held on and kept fighting and putting in the effort. He believes the organization has the right players and overall team to make the changes for a turnaround. The fans will now be waiting to see the changes and what it results to in 2025.
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