Chicago White Sox manager Robin Ventura told reporters he is stepping down from his position after a 6-3 loss to the Minnesota Twins on the final day of the regular season, saying his exit was a "personal decision" and that the team "needed a new voice."
Ventura took over as the team's manager in 2012, leading the White Sox to an 85-77 record in his debut season. That was his only winning season as a manager, however, and the White Sox have stumbled to a 78-84 record this season despite optimism that they could compete for a playoff spot.
Ventura finished with an overall record of 376-434 with the White Sox. The team never reached the postseason during his tenure.
The 49-year-old former MLB star—he hit .267 in his 16-year playing career with 294 home runs, 1,182 RBI, six Gold Gloves and two All-Star appearances—will likely attract some attention from teams looking to fill their manager positions this offseason.
While Ventura may have been the scapegoat for a roster that likely isn't equipped to compete in the postseason just yet, there are pieces to build around in Chicago for Rick Renteria, whom Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reported Saturday would be named as Ventura's successor.
Jose Abreu is a bona fide star at first base, while Todd Frazier provides pop at third base. Melky Cabrera and Adam Eaton are nice pieces. Chris Sale is one of the best starters in baseball, and Jose Quintana has established himself as a reliable starter. Carlos Rodon has star potential, while closer David Robertson has provided stability in the ninth inning.
The White Sox, once again, are left with a roster that has obvious flaws and will need key additions. The team hasn't been able to fill those holes successfully in recent years, and it's hard to argue that's not a reason why Ventura lost his job. The team's next manager will have a big task, then, returning the White Sox to the postseason.
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