Chicago White Sox finally find a manager in Pedro Grifol

The Chicago White Sox long managerial hunt is over.

After various rumors, conflicting reports, and general confusion, an official successor to Tony La Russa has been named. Pedro Grifol is set to be the 42nd manager in franchise history as they have finally settled upon a new leader.

Chicago White Sox hope different approach brings different results

Grifol is an interesting hire. While he had surfaced in managerial hunts over the past few years, it was notable that he did not get hired for the Royals’ own vacancy. The Royals wanted a new voice and a fresh approach on the bench, something that their long time coach would not have been.

He would be that for the White Sox. Grifol would provide a different vantage point, bringing an outsider’s view to the organization and clubhouse. Then again, the same could have been said about La Russa as well.

Grifol is going to find himself under a microscope from the beginning. The White Sox were one of the more disappointing teams in the majors last season, a talented group of players who were completely unable to live up to their potential. Injuries were a factor, but there were times where they appeared to be going through the motions and had zero interest in being on the diamond. The clubhouse, instead of being the vibrant place it should have been, was dead.

That is going to be Grifol’s biggest challenge. He will need to change the culture of the clubhouse and have the players be themselves once more. The talent is certainly there; Grifol is now being tasked with finding a way to bring that out. And the best way to do so may be to let the players be who they are.

The Chicago White Sox finally have their manager. Pedro Grifol has the talent on the roster to succeed, but he will have to make them believe in themselves.