The second half of the game begins. Chicago White Sox They are currently in third place, just 3.5 games behind the AL Central lead. An excellent start to the season. 86% chance They’re not the American League’s best team, but they are the most underachieving in the league. Their controversial manager is also a reason for their failure to make the playoffs.
La Russa said that realistic expectations are what make fans excited. “If there are disappointments then there is no lunch.”
Managers can’t eat at the same time as their employees.
It was obvious throughout the first half when “fire Tony”, chants that sounded like a song, became the anthem at Guaranteed Rate field. After a much-needed road trip that won them the victory, the noise has subsided a little. It has helped to keep Chicago’s AL Central weak. playoff odds at 41% Despite their 46-47 starting point.
The White Sox could point to any number statistics that would have prevented them moving past the.500 mark.
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They are 18th in the starter’s ERA
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They are 21st in MLB in defensive runs saved and 29th in fielding percentage.
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They are 26th among right-handed pitchers in OPS
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They chase 31.7% at the plate, which is 29th in baseball
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They are the third most successful baserunners
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Their home record is dismal at 19-25
However, the city is not blaming its numbers. You can turn on sports radio and go to the golf course, or just grab a beer at the ballpark. The city is discussing one thing: How does La Russa have a job?
First, observers will tell you that his “no free lunch” idea doesn’t apply to La Russa. Similar teams have also fired their managers in-season, as recently as this month. The Philadelphia Phillies Joe Girardi was eliminated and the race for the playoffs is back. The Los Angeles Angels Joe Maddon was also treated, but not in a positive way. The Toronto Blue Jays Charlie Montoya was ejected despite his winning record in the league’s most competitive division.
Chicago on the other side, however, has not indicated that the organization is considering such a move. La Russa appears to have the unwavering backing of Jerry Reinsdorf, team owner. (Reinsdorf declined to comment for this article.
His players continue to blame La Russa publicly and also place some blame on themselves.
“You need to keep in mind why he’s in Hall of Fame,” close Liam Hendriks said. “The decisions he made back then worked out. While he’s making similar decisions this time, we’re not performing. It has nothing do with Tony’s decision making. It has everything do with being called to positions and instead succeeding like last years, we aren’t. It’s up to us.
La Russa did more than just occasionally make head-scratching moves. He even intentionally walked. Trea Turner Last month, a 1-2 count was used. Jose Ramirez The All-Star break was over when the count was at 0-1 Players have been focusing on their own accountability and are grateful to their manager for accepting it.
“We’ve had some hard series and Tony will face the media before he comes in to tell us, ‘I take the responsibility. [blame] This. “I didn’t get your prepared properly,” starter Lucas Giolito explained. He is a great manager. He is determined to get the best from us, and feels a great responsibility to do this. He will take the blame. It allows us to concentrate on what is important.
La Russa dominates Chicago so much that even his presence can take the heat off players and even the front desk. La Russa’s popularity draws attention to players, but it is better for them to focus on the game. That’s at least the goal.
La Russa stated that fans expect their club to perform well, and that when they don’t, they look at the manager. “If they see something we aren’t doing in some aspect of the game, they will question it. They should. Then it’s “What are you going do about it?”
It doesn’t seem like the manager has done much to help Chicago’s problems at the moment.
One Scout said, “I’m waiting on La Russa” to get them up, push some buttons, or do something. “Maybe it will come after the All-Star break.”
Although they appreciate La Russa’s off-field qualities, a team that chases too much pitch, plays poor defense, and is at the top in bases outs doesn’t seem like it’s responding to its manager. The White Sox sometimes seem to be playing under high expectations.
La Russa explained that “when you work hard and try your best, some of these things are going to happen.” We’re not playing the best ball, but we are working hard to improve our game. We are working hard to correct all the problems.
“Responsibility to the team is what holds you accountable for the outcome. It’s healthy, it’s realistic. I am responsible for the record. If we don’t play well, it’s the manager’s responsibility.
A little luck and some help from the front office would be appreciated. Over the past two seasons, the White Sox have been subject to a number of injuries. This includes significant time missing by key players. They were recently awarded slugger Eloy Jimenez While catcher is out, he goes back into the lineup Yasmani Grandal will be returning soon.
According to sources, the Sox — as most hopeful contenders — will be looking for arms before Aug. 2 trade deadline. A left-handed slugger could be added to the roster, as well as more help in the bullpen. Starter Johnny Cueto A free agent signing was possible, although it was not possible to find the right person. Joe Kelly It has been underwhelmed.
The White Sox may finally be at their peak strength in the second half with a more relaxed schedule in August and reinforcements possible by the deadline. Perhaps the chants coming from the stands will be different.
Abreu stated that he respects the opinions of Tony and the team. “But they disagree with me. They aren’t aware of what happens within the team. Because we are the ones performing, I can tell them that blaming him is not right.
No matter what the players say, the manager is ultimately responsible. The White Sox are not like other organizations. Reinsdorf is the one who ultimately decides if and when La Russa will be replaced.
La Russa said, “I talked to Jerry sometimes, like an owners,” He was anxious last year, when we were first, and he is the same when we’re behind. He is a bottom-line guy and wants to see the end. The organization and he appreciate the spirit of the team that has kept us alive.”
It’s difficult to imagine La Russa returning for the third season if the White Sox don’t make it to the postseason. But, strange things have happened. La Russa accepts the blame, while trying to fix these problems.
He stated that “in 30-plus years there were less than five times it was smooth from the start.” “That’s what the 162-game schedule is all about.
“As for me, [former broadcaster] Jack Buck once said this to me while I was still a teenager. [managing] St. Louis. He said, “Mostly what your are is a Cardinals fan.” In other words: I’m there as the fans want to win. I can assure you that there’s no one in this ballpark tonight who wants to win more than me.