Chicago White Sox to bring back Robin Ventura for 2016

Despite a flurry of criticism surrounding his status, Robin Ventura will return as manager of the Chicago White Sox in 2016. General manager Rick Hahn announced the decision at a press conference prior to Chicago’s series opener against the Detroit Tigers.

“If the team didn’t believe in Robin’s ability to manage a championship team, he wouldn’t be here,” Hahn said.

Ventura, who has attained just one winning season on the South Side since taking over for Ozzie Guillen in 2012, has been the target of criticism from disappointed fans who expected a playoff push this year after a busy offseason.

During this past offseason, the White Sox made headlines by adding prominent veteran names to the roster such as Jeff Samardzija, Adam LaRoche, Melky Cabrera, David Roberston and Zach Duke. However, expectations did not come to pass. The Sox currently sit at 74-85 heading into tonight’s game and are guaranteed a third consecutive losing season under Ventura. Despite the lack of success with a well-put together roster, Hahn placed most of the blame on himself.

“Fundamentally the players didn’t achieve in the way I expected them to,” Hahn said. “I put that on me.”

In his four years at the helm, Ventura has compiled a record of 295-350 and has finished above fourth in the division just once. Hahn joined the team as general manager in 2012, taking over for Kenny Williams, who assumed the role of executive vice president of the team.

Although Ventura’s job appears to be safe, that is not the case for his entire staff. Earlier Friday, the White Sox fired bench coach Mark Parent after four years with the organization.

Notable names to be brought up in conversations regarding Ventura’s replacement, which appear to be for naught, include former White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen and former Twins skipper Ron Gardenhire.