Jerry Reinsdorf Open to Selling the Chicago White Sox
In a surprising turn of events, Jerry Reinsdorf, the longtime majority owner of the Chicago White Sox, is reportedly open to selling the team. Sources briefed on the matter, but not authorized to speak publicly, have indicated that discussions are underway with a group led by former Major League Baseball player Dave Stewart. This news marks a significant shift for Reinsdorf, who has been at the helm of the White Sox since 1981.
A Legacy of Ownership
Reinsdorf, now 88 years old, purchased the White Sox for approximately $20 million, a sum that seems almost trivial in today’s sports economy. He is currently the second-longest active owner in Major League Baseball, trailing only the Steinbrenner family, who acquired the New York Yankees in 1973. According to Forbes, Reinsdorf owns an estimated 19 percent of the White Sox, and it is believed that this stake is part of the ongoing sale discussions.
Interestingly, Reinsdorf is not the only owner exploring a sale recently; the Pohlad family, who have owned the Minnesota Twins since 1984, announced plans to consider selling their team just days before news of Reinsdorf’s discussions broke.
A Shift in Stance
Historically, Reinsdorf has shown little interest in selling the White Sox. In fact, he has publicly stated that he advised his heirs to sell the team upon his passing while retaining ownership of the Chicago Bulls, where his son, Michael, serves as COO and team president. This latest development raises questions about what has prompted Reinsdorf to reconsider his long-held position.
While the reasons remain unclear, it is worth noting that the White Sox have had a tumultuous season, losing a record 121 games. Reinsdorf has been vocal about the need for significant organizational changes, which may have influenced his decision to explore a sale.
Dave Stewart: A Potential Successor
Dave Stewart, the former big leaguer leading the group interested in purchasing the White Sox, boasts an impressive resume. He has won World Series titles with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Oakland Athletics, and Toronto Blue Jays. Stewart’s career includes a remarkable stretch with the Athletics, where he achieved four consecutive 20-win seasons, earning him a place in the prestigious “Black Aces” club.
Stewart’s group, known as Smoke34, has previously attempted to purchase a stake in the Oakland Coliseum and has been actively pursuing an expansion baseball team in Nashville. His involvement in the White Sox sale raises questions about the team’s future in Chicago, particularly as the city is currently in discussions about a new stadium.
Stadium Plans and Future Prospects
The White Sox are pushing for a new stadium within the next four years, having released renderings for a potential site in the South Loop. This undeveloped 62-acre parcel of land, known as “The 78,” is located just south of downtown Chicago. However, the proposal has faced resistance regarding the need for public funding, which would be essential for the project’s realization.
The team’s current lease at Guaranteed Rate Field, which opened in 1991, runs through 2029. Reinsdorf has expressed a desire to relocate before the lease expires, adding urgency to the discussions surrounding the potential sale.
Recent Changes in Management
Under Reinsdorf’s ownership, the White Sox celebrated a World Series victory in 2005, but the team has struggled in recent years. They have made the playoffs three times since then but have failed to win a postseason series. This lack of success led to significant changes in the organization, including the dismissal of team president Kenny Williams and general manager Rick Hahn last year.
The team is now under the leadership of new general manager Chris Getz, who has already made the decision to part ways with manager Pedro Grifol during the season. Reinsdorf has acknowledged the pain felt by fans during this challenging period, stating that the team’s struggles did not happen overnight and that solutions will take time.
The Road Ahead
As the White Sox navigate this pivotal moment in their history, the potential sale and the involvement of Dave Stewart could signal a new chapter for the franchise. With ongoing discussions about a new stadium and significant changes in management, the future of the White Sox remains uncertain yet full of possibilities. The coming months will be crucial in determining the direction of the team and its place in the Chicago sports landscape.