FILE - Chicago White Sox manager Tony La Russa looks to the field from the dugout before a baseball game against the Texas Rangers in Chicago, June 10, 2022. La Russa has stepped down as manager of the White Sox because of a heart issue. The announcement Monday, Oct. 3, 2022, ends a disappointing two-year run in the same spot where the Hall of Famer got his first job as a big league skipper. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)

La Russa’s stint with White Sox comes to a close

Lauren Halpern October 4, 2022 Baseball, MLB 401 Views

Chicago White Sox Manager Tony La Russa announced in a statement Monday that he is stepping down from his current position. With an ongoing health concern regarding his pacemaker, his doctors recommended he step away from the team at the end of August.

Though he was scheduled to begin spring training with the installation of a pacemaker earlier this year, an annual private exam suggested a second health issue that resulted in the implementation of a corrective plan. While La Russa claims his overall prognosis is good, he must remain out of uniform as White Sox manager in 2023 due to the length of the treatment and recovery process of this second health issue.

La Russa and the White Sox

The final reality centers around the White Sox record this season. La Russa admitted that although his condition did not necessarily have a negative impact on his responsibility as manager, the season has been an unacceptable disappointment. He said he regrets to inform fans that he wasn’t able to provide the difference-making leadership and support the team needs.

Nonetheless, he appreciates the opportunity to come back a second time with the White Sox. Initially under Jerry Reinsdorf from 1979 until the 1986 season, La Russa had a positive impact on the team. He led them to a 99-win season and a division title in 1983. Unfortunately, the team’s winning percentage has rapidly declined since then, despite playing in possibly the weakest division in baseball. This season, the White Sox’s winning percentage has stayed around .500.

Though his second tenure was not as rewarding, La Russa said that he wishes nothing but the best for the White Sox. He said that he predicts a bright future for the team as he closes out a curiously stellar career in the dugout.

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About Lauren Halpern

I'm an undergraduate student in the College of Journalism and Communications working towards a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. With a specialization in sports and media, my involvement in ESPN Gainesville, Reptile Report, and The University Athletic Association has given me good introductory experience in the sports media industry. I'm seeking a sports broadcasting position as a reporter where my high energy personality and passion for athletics is communicated to the public. As an athlete myself, it's important to me to work on a supportive and hard-working team. I look forward to connecting with you!

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