Chicago White Sox Stave Off Historic Losses with Recent Wins
The Chicago White Sox have managed to avoid the ignominious distinction of becoming the worst team in modern Major League Baseball history for a third consecutive night, securing a 7-0 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Thursday. This win not only marked a significant moment for the team but also brought their season record to 39-120, as they continue to fight against the looming specter of a record-breaking number of losses.
A Season of Struggles and Small Victories
The recent win against the Angels was particularly noteworthy as it represented the White Sox’s second sweep of the season, their first since they swept the Tampa Bay Rays in late April. With three games remaining against the Detroit Tigers, the White Sox are now in a race against time to avoid setting a new record for losses in a single season. The current record, held by the 1962 New York Mets, stands at 120 losses, a mark the White Sox tied just days prior.
Earlier in the week, the White Sox showcased their resilience with a thrilling 3-2 win over the Angels on Tuesday. This game was especially significant as it marked the team’s first victory of the season after trailing through seven innings, breaking a disheartening streak of 0-94 in such situations. This newfound ability to come back from behind has injected a sense of hope into a season that has been largely defined by disappointment.
Andrew Benintendi: The Walk-Off King
One of the standout players during this late-season surge has been Andrew Benintendi, who delivered a dramatic walk-off hit on Wednesday. His bloop single into right field brought in Miguel Vargas, sealing the victory for the White Sox. Remarkably, Benintendi has been responsible for all of the White Sox’s walk-off wins this season, highlighting his importance to the team during these challenging times.
The Weight of History
Despite their recent successes, the specter of history looms large over the White Sox. They are currently tied with the 1962 Mets for the most losses in modern MLB history and have surpassed the 2003 Detroit Tigers and the 1916 Philadelphia Athletics in total losses. While the Cleveland Spiders hold the record for the most losses in a season with 134 in 1899, their season is not comparable to today’s 162-game format.
General Manager Chris Getz has acknowledged the weight of this potential record, stating, "It’s not something that anyone wanted to be associated with." He emphasized that the focus has been on the long-term health of the organization rather than merely avoiding a historical low. The White Sox have made changes, including a managerial shift in August, with the goal of improving the team’s culture and performance as they look toward a more promising future.
Looking Ahead: Offseason Decisions
As the season winds down, the White Sox face a pivotal offseason filled with critical decisions. They will be selecting no higher than the 10th pick in the 2025 MLB Draft, a consequence of their struggles this year. The team must also find a new full-time manager after parting ways with Pedro Grifol last month, a move that reflects their desire for a fresh start.
Roster decisions loom large as well, with potential trades for key players like Luis Robert Jr. and Garrett Crochet on the table. The team must also consider whether to exercise a $25 million club option on infielder Yoán Moncada, who has battled injuries throughout the season. Moncada is one of the few players with a guaranteed salary for 2025, alongside Andrew Benintendi and Max Stassi, who has a $7.5 million club option.
Acknowledging the Fans
Throughout this tumultuous season, Getz has expressed gratitude toward the White Sox fanbase, acknowledging the challenges they have faced alongside the team. "I think it’s really important to do a heartfelt thanks to our fans who have been with us through this very difficult, painful season," he said. The organization recognizes that fans deserve better and is committed to learning from this season’s failures to build a brighter future.
As the White Sox continue to navigate the final games of the season, the focus remains on finishing strong and laying the groundwork for a more competitive 2025. The journey ahead will require careful planning and strategic decisions, but for now, the team is determined to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.