White Sox manager Tony La Russa announced he is officially stepping down due to multiple health reasons.
La Russa has not managed the team since August with what he described as updating a pacemaker that he had installed in February. However, the veteran manager explains that while he was sidelined, the doctors discovered a different health issue that he did not disclose. La Russa said while these health concerns haven’t impacted his ability to manage, they do hinder his ability to return.
“It has become obvious that the length of the treatment and recovery process for this second health issue makes it impossible for me to be the White Sox manager in 2023,” he said in a statement.
Additionally, La Russa acknowledged that he was disappointed in his time as Chicago’s manager.
“I was hired to provide positive, difference-making leadership and support,” he said. “Our record is proof. I didn’t do my job.”
Under La Russa, Chicago went 172–149, winning the AL Central in 2021 but missing the playoffs this season. La Russa spent much of the 2022 season dealing with calls for his job, as more than once did fans chant “Fire Tony” during games after they were unhappy with his decision-making.
Despite that, La Russa claims he never blamed the fans for their actions.
“At no time have I been disappointed or upset with White Sox fans, including those who at times chanted ‘Fire Tony,’” he said. “They come to games with passion for our team and a strong desire to win.”
Still, the White Sox made the playoffs in 2021 under La Russa, which included hosting two playoff games against the Astros. The Hall of Famer applauded the atmosphere in Game 3 specifically, stacking it up against the big games he managed with the Athletics and Cardinals.
“No disrespect intended to any of my other teams and fans, but that was the most electric crowd I ever experienced,” he said.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale first reported La Russa was stepping down on Sunday, and he also listed a few potential replacement names including Carlos Beltrán, Bruce Bochy and Mike Shildt.
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