White Sox Part Ways with Pedro Grifol Amid Disastrous Season
In a move reflecting the deep struggles of the Chicago White Sox, the team has dismissed manager Pedro Grifol. The decision comes as the White Sox endure one of their toughest seasons in franchise history, currently holding a dismal 28-89 record in the 2024 season.
Grifol, who took the helm for the 2023 season, leaves the club with an overall record of 89-190 and a .319 winning percentage. His dismissal is part of a broader shake-up within the White Sox organization, which aims to chart a new course after years of underperformance.
“As we all recognize, our team’s performance this season has been disappointing on many levels,” said Chris Getz, the newly appointed General Manager who began his rebuilding efforts last offseason. “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.”
Indeed, the White Sox's performance under Grifol has been far from stellar. The team finished the 2023 season with a 61-101 record, a sharp decline from their even 81-81 finish in 2022. This year, the White Sox set a new record for the longest losing streak in franchise history twice, with a 14-game skid from May 22 to June 6, followed by a debilitating 21-game losing streak that was only recently snapped.
The organizational changes extend beyond the dismissal of Grifol. Bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar have also been relieved of their duties, signaling a comprehensive overhaul of the coaching staff.
Grady Sizemore has been appointed as the interim manager for the remainder of the 2024 season. The former MLB star faces the daunting task of steering the team through the final months of a season that could see the White Sox losing more than 120 games.
“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,” Grifol commented before his departure.
As the White Sox initiate their search for a new permanent manager, which they aim to conclude after the season, the team's roster also reflects ongoing transitions. The White Sox traded key players Erick Fedde, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Pham at the July 30 trade deadline, pointing to a significant restructuring by Getz.
The challenges ahead for the White Sox are substantial. While the dismissal of Grifol and the changes in the coaching staff are steps toward a fresh start, the team will need to rebuild both player performance and organizational morale. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the search for a permanent manager unfolds and as Sizemore leads the team through a crucial and transitional period.
The coming months are critical for the White Sox as they attempt to break free from a cycle of losing and stagnation. With new leadership and a renewed focus on development and energy, the team aims to turn a new page and build towards a more promising future.