When Jerry Reinsdorf took control of the Chicago White Sox in January 1981, purchasing the club from Bill Veeck for $20 million, fans had high hopes for a new era of baseball success on the South Side. Over 40 years later, Reinsdorf's tenure tells a tale of fleeting triumphs and protracted tribulations.
A Legacy of Mixed Results
Under Reinsdorf's ownership, the White Sox have clinched seven postseason berths, notably winning the World Series in 2005. Despite this moment of glory, fans have often faced disappointment. The team has endured significant struggles in recent seasons, including their current projection to finish the 2024 season with a dismal record of 38-124. Such a finish would surpass the infamous 1962 New York Mets' modern record of 120 losses. This projected downturn follows a record-setting 21 consecutive losses, casting a long shadow over Reinsdorf's leadership.
Internal Turmoil
Changes in the front office have also marked Reinsdorf's reign. In August of last year, he dismissed vice president Ken Williams and general manager Rick Hahn, who had notable tenures with the organization since 2000 and over a decade, respectively. Despite managerial upheavals, success on the field has been elusive. Manager Pedro Grifol was let go after compiling an 89-192 record, a decision reflecting the team's prolonged decline.
Chris Getz was appointed as the new general manager without an external search, a move that raised eyebrows. A veteran baseball evaluator critiqued the decision, stating, "The fanbase should be up in arms. They have zero chance to be successful with these changes." Such sentiments underscore the skepticism surrounding the current direction of the franchise.
A New Ballpark on the Horizon?
Reinsdorf's aspirations for a new ballpark have also stirred controversy. Despite Illinois taxpayers funding Guaranteed Rate Field in 1991 at a cost of $137 million and annually paying $5 million for repairs and maintenance, Reinsdorf has voiced a desire for a new, largely publicly funded stadium. The White Sox owner once threatened to relocate the team to St. Petersburg, Florida, to gain leverage in negotiations. As he put it, "a savvy negotiator creates leverage. People had to think we were going to leave Chicago."
Looking to the Future
The future of the White Sox under Reinsdorf remains uncertain. At 88 years old, Reinsdorf has implied a potential sale of the team after his passing. He has acknowledged that his son, Michael, may feel obligated to sell the team for the benefit of other investors, stating, "When I'm gone, (son Michael) will have an obligation to do what's best (for the other investors). That likely means putting the team up for sale … The team will be worth more out of town."
Broadcast Changes
Despite the team's on-field and off-field struggles, there are changes looming in other areas. Nashville-based Standard Media Group is set to broadcast White Sox games, introducing a new dynamic to how fans will engage with the team.
Reflections on Ownership
Throughout his tenure, Reinsdorf has often framed owning the White Sox as more than a business venture. "I've always looked at the ownership of a baseball franchise as a public trust, maybe even a charitable thing. I'm serious about that," he once said. Reinsdorf also highlighted his unique perspective on the financial stakes of the baseball business. "I didn't get into baseball to make money. Baseball is my religion. I'm happy to break even."
As Reinsdorf enters the twilight of his ownership, these quotes resonate more profoundly with fans and observers. With the possibility of new leadership and uncertain days ahead, the story of the Chicago White Sox under Jerry Reinsdorf's direction is one marked by nostalgia, unfulfilled potential, and a loyalty to the sport that sometimes defies business logic.