Chicago White Sox Dismiss Pedro Grifol Amid Struggles
The Chicago White Sox have parted ways with manager Pedro Grifol, following a dismal 2024 season that has seen the team compile a record of 28-89. This move comes as new General Manager Chris Getz begins to overhaul the coaching staff and roster in hopes of reviving the franchise's fortunes.
Grifol's tenure with the White Sox ends with an overall record of 89-190, translating to a .319 winning percentage over two seasons. His departure is a significant step in the White Sox's ongoing efforts to reset and rebuild under new leadership. Bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar have also been relieved of their duties.
Getz addressed the decision in a statement, acknowledging the team's struggles. "As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels," he said. "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, who spent a decade with the Kansas City Royals organization before joining the White Sox, reflected on his role. "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. 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," he said.
Season of Historic Lows
The 2024 season has been a tumultuous one for the White Sox, punctuated by two franchise-record losing streaks. The first, a 14-game skid, stretched from May 22 to June 6. The second was even more severe, lasting 21 games before recently being snapped. With the team on pace to lose more than 120 games, the urgency for change became inevitable.
The disappointing performance follows a similarly challenging 2023 season, which saw the White Sox finish with a 61-101 record. The 2022 season had offered more promise, concluding with an 81-81 record, but the team's trajectory has sharply declined since then.
New Leadership Amid the Rebuild
In the wake of these changes, Grady Sizemore has been appointed as the interim manager for the remainder of the 2024 season. Sizemore's role during this period is critical as the White Sox aim to stabilize and prepare for a more permanent solution. The search for a new permanent manager is set to begin immediately, with an appointment expected after the season's conclusion.
Under Getz's leadership, the roster has already begun to undergo changes. Prior to his arrival, notable trades were made at the July 30 trade deadline, including the departures of Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham. These moves signal a broader strategy aimed at reconstituting the team from the ground up.
Chris Getz, who took over as GM, has emphasized the need to develop new energy around the team. His statements reflect a commitment to a comprehensive rebuild, one that focuses not just on the roster but also on the culture and morale within the organization.
As the White Sox transition under interim management, the organization's future hinges on the ability to both identify and secure the right person to lead the team forward. With a new manager on the horizon and strategic changes already in motion, the White Sox hope to turn the page on these challenging seasons and build towards a more successful and competitive future.