Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf called the team’s record-breaking losing season “embarrassing” and a “failure,” taking responsibility for it.
Reinsdorf shared a letter with fans as the White Sox prepared for their last game, having a record of 40-121, which is the most losses for any major league team since 1900.
“By all measures, our on-field performance this season was a failure,” Reinsdorf wrote. “As the leader of this organization, that is my responsibility. There are no excuses.”
“I want to thank you for continuing to support the team throughout what was an embarrassing season,” he added. “You all deserved better. This season’s performance was completely unacceptable and the different reactions and feelings from our fans are completely understandable.”
The White Sox won their last game against the playoff-bound Detroit Tigers, finishing with a record of 41-121.
Chicago broke the post-1900 record for losses, previously held by the 1962 New York Mets, who went 40-120 in their first season. The all-time record for losses was set by the 1899 Cleveland Spiders at 20-134.
Reinsdorf, who is 88, led a group that bought the White Sox in 1981 and the NBA’s Chicago Bulls in 1985. The only World Series championship under his ownership came in 2005.
“Every blown save, every defensive mistake, every shutout, every sweep — hurt,” he said. “It was a long, painful season for all of us. We understand that we need to earn your trust, attention, time, and support. We promise to work hard this offseason to improve.”
Grady Sizemore became the interim manager on August 8 after Pedro Grifol was fired and led Chicago to a 13-32 record, which translates to a 47-115 pace.
“This wasn’t the year we wanted and these aren’t the numbers we wanted,” Sizemore said. “But that doesn’t mean this is a total loss. We can build from this and get better.”
