Given that the White Sox set a modern major league record for losses last season, this request isn’t easy to convey.
“Looking around, you can start to see some long-term components for a truly competitive team,” Getz stated on Thursday. “Seeing these players take steps toward becoming productive major leaguers this year is an exciting prospect. Ultimately, however, it needs to start happening. I hope at some point our fans can understand that our commitment and discipline will yield long-term benefits.”
Getz spoke to reporters prior to a smaller version of the team’s weekend fan festival. This year, the event takes place at a theater close to their South Side ballpark instead of a larger downtown venue, as in previous years. It provides fans an opportunity to engage with the front office and current as well as former players and coaches.
Last season, under Getz’s leadership, the White Sox finished with a record of 41-121, breaking the post-1900 major league record for losses.
“We’re looking for our players to progress, both individually and as a team,” Getz remarked. “This may sometimes show in wins or losses—that’s just part of the game. It’s about truly understanding what each player needs to succeed at the major league level, and definitely about playing together and grasping what it takes to win games.”
With new leadership on the field, manager Will Venable has replaced Pedro Grifol, who was dismissed in August. Venable previously served as an associate manager under Bruce Bochy in Texas for two years, where he contributed to daily operations and outfield coaching, culminating in the Rangers’ 2023 World Series victory.
“Our focus on effort and competition will be emphasized from Day 1. We expect to hold players accountable to this standard, making it part of our identity as the White Sox,” Venable said.
The White Sox are also counting on the development of promising left-handed pitchers Noah Schultz and Hagen Smith, who will join major league camp during spring training before returning to the minors. Getz anticipates that shortstop Colson Montgomery, the No. 22 pick in the 2021 amateur draft, will make his debut this season.
During the winter meetings, Chicago made a significant trade by sending All-Star left-hander Garrett Crochet to Boston, yet slugger Luis Robert Jr. remains with the team.
“We’re open-minded and not actively looking to move anyone,” Getz noted. “That said, other teams might be engaging in the free agent process, which could lead to discussions. We feel most of our moves have been made, but we’re not done yet, and I’m eager to gather this group in Arizona.”
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