Don’t expect Tony La Russa to be one and done with the Chicago White Sox. According to a report from MLB Network Insider Bob Nightengale, the legendary manager is set to return in the White Sox’s dugout in 2022 despite an early playoff exit this year.
The White Sox tempted La Russa out of retirement ahead of the 2021 MLB season, hoping that the Hall of Famer could lead their talented team on a deep playoff run. This bold move seemed to have paid off as Chicago clinched AL Central title ahead of the schedule and finished the campaign with the franchise-best record (93-69) since 2005.
However, the great regular season performances didn’t carry over to the postseason, and the White Sox were an easy four-game out for the Houston Astros in ALDS. This prompted rumor about La Russa’s uncertain future in Chicago, but it now seems that the 77-year-old legend will have a chance to make amends next year.
The news about La Russa’s stay is expected to be received well among the Chicago White Sox players considering many of them campaigned to have him back next season.
“I want him to be back,” star shortstop Tim Anderson told reporters on Thursday. “At the end of the day, my decision doesn’t really matter. I guess it all depends on what the front office thinks. I definitely want him in. I think he did a great job with the way he managed and just being open.”
This is La Russa’s second stint with the White Sox as he started his managerial career with the franchise. He also managed Oakland Athletics and St. Louis Cardinals, winning one World Series with the Athletics and two with the Cardinals.
