Manager Stresses: White Sox Owner Jerry Reinsdorf’s Full Commitment to Winning Despite Franchise’s Historic Struggles
The Chicago White Sox endured a 68-minute rain delay in the ninth inning, only to succumb to their 41st loss in 56 games on Tuesday night (TOR 7, CWS 2). With a dismal start of 15-41, they hold the worst record in baseball, marking the franchise’s bleakest beginning in its 124-year history. Their current standing is a stark contrast to 2018’s 18-38, the next closest record through 56 games.
Despite a recent rebuild, the ChiSox find themselves in another period of reconstruction. Despite making postseason appearances twice in the last 15 years, their Opening Day payroll of $123.1 million ranked 20th among MLB’s 30 teams, a significant drop from last year’s $181.2 million. Remarkably, the White Sox and the Oakland Athletics stand as the only two teams to have never awarded a $100 million contract.
Manager Pedro Grifol conveyed owner Jerry Reinsdorf’s desire for victory, lauding his passion and extensive baseball knowledge. However, skepticism remains regarding Reinsdorf’s commitment to winning, given his track record. As the owner of the NBA’s Chicago Bulls, Reinsdorf has shown reluctance to invest, with the team only paying luxury tax once in its history. Moreover, Reinsdorf’s past involvement in MLB collusion and his stance during the 1994-95 players’ strike paint a picture of an owner more concerned with profit than player success.
While Grifol praises Reinsdorf, the recent history of the White Sox and Bulls suggests winning may not be his top priority. Despite Grifol’s loyalty, the reality of Reinsdorf’s focus appears evident in the franchise’s performance over the past two decades.
