The Chicago White Sox have been one of the biggest disappointments in baseball this year. Not only were they expected to run away with the AL Central, but they were viewed as one of the leading contenders to be the American League entrant in the World Series.
That has not been the case. Not only have the White Sox struggled to remain over .500 this year, but they have work to do to get into the postseason. The White Sox are third in the Central and are behind three teams for the final Wild Card berth. This is not what anyone had in mind at the start of the year.
Three managerial candidates if Chicago White Sox fire Tony La Russa
Those struggles can be placed directly at the feet of Tony La Russa. He was already a controversial hiring when he took over prior to the 2021 campaign, but the White Sox performance makes it even worse. His questionable managerial decisions, tendency to fall asleep in the dugout, and inability to connect with modern players make is appear as though he is what is holding the White Sox back.
There have been calls for much of the year for the White Sox to fire La Russa. At this point, anything short of a late season charge to get into the playoffs should result in his being let go. Of course, one could argue that he never should have been hired in the first place, but that is an argument for Jerry Reinsdorf.
Tony La Russa should be on the hot seat for the Chicago White Sox. Let’s look at three managers that could replace him if he is fired.
Joe Maddon
The Los Angeles Angels wanted to pin their struggles this season on Joe Maddon. Maybe he was not the problem.
The Angels had gone from a ten game winning streak earlier in the year to a 14 game losing streak. Maddon, who appeared to have finally worked his magic, was made the scapegoat, fired with a 27-29 record. As it turns out, he was not the issue as Phil Nevin has a 23-35 record entering Sunday.
Maddon had a track record of success prior to his time in Los Angeles, taking the Rays and Cubs to the World Series. He has long been regarded as one of the best managerial minds in the game, someone who is frequently a step or two ahead. Add in his ability to connect with his players and keep a locker room loose, and he could be just what the Chicago White Sox need.
The question is whether or not Maddon would want to manage again. He will be 69 years old at the start of next season and was already staring down retirement. After his time in Los Angeles, he may not be willing to take on another managerial role. Nonetheless, he is someone that the White Sox should call.
Joe Maddon has the credentials to take over for Tony La Russa. The only question is whether or not he would want to.