Last week, Pedro Grifol and three of his coaches departed quietly after they were dismissed by Chicago White Sox general manager Chris Getz.
Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, who had the final say, bid farewell to a man who had excessively praised him over the past two years, making the constant flattery somewhat uncomfortable to hear.
However, dismissing Grifol and the coaches whose names you likely don’t recall won’t significantly enhance the team’s appeal enough for Sox fans to become invested as the season nears its end.
With the New York Yankees set to arrive in town on Monday, the remaining fans will tune in to witness stars like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, longing for a team that consistently competes for victories, unlike the much-despised Yankees.
Of course, they are aware that this is merely a dream. Yet, the primary focus for Sox upper management in these closing weeks should be to retain those fans still loyal and hopeful for brighter days ahead.
The decision to part ways with Grifol had been overdue. The atmosphere at Sox Park on Friday and Saturday during the City Series was undeniably charged. There are no expectations for this team to suddenly turn into winners, but fans would appreciate seeing a team that genuinely cares about their losses.
While Grady Sizemore may not be the ultimate solution, he at least appears to be working to reshape the public view of a team that seems to have accepted its fate in the annals of baseball.
Sometimes, change for the sake of change can yield positive results.
This brings us to the pressing issue at hand: What actions can the Sox take regarding John Schriffen?
If past trends serve as any indicator, the response is likely “nothing.” This is the same organization that reinstated Terry Bevington, recognized as the most unpopular manager in recent Sox history, and that also chose to cancel SoxFest. Making adjustments is not its forte.
White Sox broadcasters Steve Stone, center, and John Schriffen, right, share a light moment with manager Pedro Grifol on opening day against the Tigers on March 28, 2024, at Guaranteed Rate Field. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)
Schriffen, the rookie play-by-play announcer
With just two years remaining on a contract that has, to put it mildly, not met the Sox’s expectations, the decision to hire someone without prior experience as the voice of a major-league team was fraught with risk. Who could have anticipated that replacing Jason Benetti on Sox broadcasts would be as disastrous as the Bulls’ choice to swap Phil Jackson for Tim Floyd following Michael Jordan’s retirement in 1998?
As many may recall, then-Bulls general manager Jerry Krause was eager to part ways with his well-liked coach Jackson in favor of his old friend Floyd. This dramatic transition was detailed in the much-viewed series “The Last Dance,” which gained widespread attention during the pandemic.
Fast-forward to 2023: Neither Brooks Boyer, head of Sox marketing, nor Jerry Reinsdorf were particularly fond of Benetti’s witty game-calling approach, which often included pop-culture references, playful jabs at partner Steve Stone, and lighthearted banter during mundane game moments. Feeling unappreciated, Benetti opted to take a job with the Detroit Tigers, forfeiting a position he had long dreamed about since childhood.
The common thread in both cases is Reinsdorf, who allowed both Jackson and Benetti to depart and replaced them with fresh, untested talent. Floyd was ultimately dismissed in his fourth season. Will Schriffen manage to stay on through 2026?
Beyond Schriffen’s apparent obsession with promoting a catchphrase (“South Side, stand up!”) and his primal growls during Luis Robert Jr.’s home runs, there is his notable lack of knowledge regarding the White Sox’s history before the Frank Thomas era. Furthermore, there’s his tendency to sugarcoat the performance of a team currently projected to be among the worst in major league history. Most troubling, though, is his ongoing feud with WSCR-670 AM, which has become increasingly difficult to overlook.
The majority of viewers likely remain unaware of his grievances with The Score or simply do not care, yet he continues to revisit them, frequently referencing “haters” and “radio losers,” long after his initial rants. Astonishingly, no one from Boyer’s department has advised him to dial it back.
Fans tune in for the game itself, not for Schriffen’s personal grievances. During the last inning of the Sox’s record-tying 21-game losing streak in Oakland, Schriffen told partner Gordon Beckham, “I need” the win.
Beckham jokingly asked Schriffen whether he planned to head down to the clubhouse after the win to celebrate with the players. While Beckham was clearly joking, anyone who has followed Sox broadcasts throughout the season might have wondered if that was indeed Schriffen’s intention.
His infamous “We ain’t taking that!” tirade during the altercation between Tommy Pham and Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras earlier in June remains fresh in many fans’ memories. Schriffen is unique among play-by-play announcers in that he often acts as though he is a member of the team itself.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="lazyautosizes lazyload" alt="White Sox outfielder Tommy Pham is restrained by coaches during the eighth inning against the Brewers on June 2, 2024, in Milwaukee. (Stacy Revere/Getty)" width="6000" height="269" data-sizes="auto" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.chicagotribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CTC-Z-2155759391_194215512.jpg?fit=620%2C9999px&ssl=1" data-attachment-id="16975176" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.chicagotribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CTC-Z-2155759391_194215512.jpg?fit=620%2C9999px&ssl=1 620w,https://i0.wp.com/www.chicagotribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CTC-Z-2155759391_194215512.jpg?fit=780%2C9999px&ssl=1 780w,https://i0.wp.com/www.chicagotribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CTC-Z-2155759391_194215512.jpg?fit=810%2C9999px&ssl=1 810w,https://i0.wp.“`html
White Sox outfielder Tommy Pham is held back by coaches during the eighth inning against the Brewers on June 2, 2024, in Milwaukee. (Stacy Revere/Getty)
Will the Sox express their gratitude to Schriffen for his dedication and efforts, then part ways at the end of the season? As the organization gears up for 2025, featuring a new manager and likely several new players, is there a need for a fresh play-by-play announcer?
Drawing from my extensive experience with the White Sox management, I believe he will likely remain safe at home for at least another year.
So, South Side, rise up. Or stay seated. It may not make a difference.
The tune stays the same.
Originally Published: August 12, 2024 at 6:00 a.m.
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White Sox Management Shakeup: Can New Changes Spark Hope for Frustrated Fans?
Understanding the White Sox Management Changes
The Chicago White Sox have undergone significant management changes recently, igniting discussions among fans, analysts, and sports enthusiasts alike. With the team’s performance struggling over the past few seasons, this shakeup could be the pivotal moment needed to reignite the passion of frustrated fans.
Key Changes in the Front Office
– **New General Manager**: The White Sox have appointed a new general manager, bringing fresh ideas and a different approach to player recruitment and development.
– **Coaching Staff Overhaul**: Several coaches have been replaced, aiming to enhance player performance and team dynamics.
– **Focus on Analytics**: The new management is emphasizing data-driven decisions, aligning with modern baseball strategies to maximize player potential.
Why the Shakeup Matters for Fans
For many fans, the White Sox’s management shakeup represents hope. Below are some reasons why these changes could be transformative:
– **Fresh Perspectives**: New management often leads to innovative strategies that can rejuvenate a team’s performance on the field.
– **Restoring Fan Trust**: A change in management can signal to fans that the organization is serious about improvement and values their support.
– **Increased Investment**: New leadership may also bring in new resources and investments, both in player acquisitions and facilities.
Potential Benefits of New Management for the White Sox
The benefits of this management shakeup extend beyond immediate performance improvements. Here are some potential impacts:
- Enhanced Player Development: A new approach could better nurture young talent, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled players.
- Revitalized Team Culture: Management changes can lead to a shift in team morale, creating a more cohesive and competitive environment.
- Improved Fan Engagement: Fans may feel more connected to the team as they witness positive changes and a renewed commitment to winning.
Case Study: Recent Management Changes in MLB
To understand the potential impacts of the White Sox’s changes, let’s examine a few recent management shakeups in Major League Baseball (MLB):
| Team | Year of Change | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Braves | 2016 | Won the World Series in 2021 |
| Houston Astros | 2011 | Won the World Series in 2017 and 2022 |
| New York Mets | 2018 | Playoff appearances in 2020 and 2021 |
Practical Tips for Fans During the Transition
As the White Sox undergo these significant changes, here are some practical tips for fans to stay engaged and hopeful:
1. **Stay Informed**: Follow reliable sports news websites and the White Sox’s official channels for the latest updates.
2. **Engage on Social Media**: Join discussions on platforms like Twitter and Facebook to share your thoughts and connect with other fans.
3. **Attend Games**: Show support by attending games and cheering for the team during this transition phase.
4. **Participate in Fan Events**: Engage in fan events organized by the White Sox to feel a sense of community during the changes.
First-Hand Experience: Fan Reactions
Fan reactions to the management shakeup have been mixed but largely optimistic. Many fans express a sense of renewed hope following the announcement of new leadership. Here are some sentiments shared across forums and social media:
– **”a change we needed!”** – Many fans believe that a new approach could lead to a turnaround.
– **”I’m excited to see what the new GM has planned!”** – There’s anticipation surrounding potential draft picks and trades.
– **”It’s time to hold the players accountable!”** – Fans are eager for a management team that prioritizes performance and accountability.
Analyzing the Team’s Current Roster
A successful management shakeup must align with a well-structured roster. Here’s a brief analysis of the key players currently on the White Sox:
| Player | Position | 2023 Performance Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Tim Anderson | Shortstop | Batting Average: .283, 12 Home Runs |
| Lucas Giolito | Starting Pitcher | ERA: 3.54, Strikeouts: 180 |
| José Abreu | First Base | RBIs: 75, On-Base %: .364 |
What Fans Can Expect Moving Forward
As the White Sox forge ahead with new leadership, fans can anticipate several developments:
– **Strategic Trades and Acquisitions**: Under new management, expect shifts in player transactions to build a more competitive roster.
– **Enhanced Game Strategies**: A renewed emphasis on analytics may lead to smarter in-game decisions, optimizing player matchups and strategies.
– **Community Engagement Initiatives**: New leadership may prioritize reconnecting with the fan base through outreach and engagement events.
Conclusion
While the future of the Chicago White Sox remains uncertain, the recent management shakeup offers a glimmer of hope for frustrated fans. With new leadership comes the potential for revitalization, enhanced performance, and a stronger connection with the fan base. Only time will tell if these changes will indeed spark the revival that the team desperately needs, but for now, fans are encouraged to remain optimistic and engaged.
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