White Sox fire Pedro Grifol after historic struggle and record-breaking losing streak

Against the backdrop of a historically poor season, the White Sox have fired manager Pedro Grifol. The announcement comes one day after the Sox snapped a 21-game losing streak.

Grifol, 54, served as Chicago White Sox's manager since the 2023 season, wherein he coached the club to a 61-101 record. While last year's showing was far from successful, Chicago's current 28-89 record this year makes last year's campaign look rather favorable.

"The White Sox announce they have dismissed Pedro Grifol as the club's manager." - MLB

The White Sox's recent losing snap was particularily hard on the team's morale. By losing 21 straight games, the Sox tied the 1988 Baltimore Orioles for the second-longest losing streak in MLB history. Since he took the reigns of the club in late 2022, Pedro Grifol has an 89-190 record in the Chicago dugout.

A native of Miami, Grifol joined the Kansas City Royals' coaching staff in 2013, and was promoted to bench coach in 2020. As part of their statement on the dismissal of Grifol, the White Sox claimed that they will begin "immediately" searching for a replacement, with an announcement set to come during the offseason.

"Pedro Grifol has been fired by the White Sox. Per team statement, the Sox “will begin a search for a new manager immediately with a replacement expected to be announced after the conclusion of the 2024 season. @MLB Network" - Jon Morosi

For whoever eventually replaces Grifol, some deep structural issues within the Chicago White Sox's capabilities will need to be addressed. The club ranks 30th in team batting average, 29th in hits, and the second-worst team ERA in MLB.

Pedro Grifol's dismissal is merely a first step for the White Sox

As the old adage goes, you cannot fire players. With the firing of Pedro Grifol, the Sox have acknowledged that the playbook is not working. As GM Chris Getz said of the decision:

“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.”

With the 2024 season written off, the White Sox have a lot of hard decisions ahead. At least it appears as though the journey has begun.