White Sox Owner Jerry Reinsdorf Hints at Possible Move from Chicago Amid Stadium Concerns
ICARO Media Group
In a recent interview with Greg Hinz of Crain's Chicago Business, White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf raised concerns about the team's future in Chicago. The 87-year-old emphasized the need for a new stadium to ensure the franchise's viability, stating that without one, the team may be sold to a relocation group following his passing.
Reinsdorf, who has long expressed a preference for holding onto the NBA's Chicago Bulls and potentially selling the White Sox, highlighted the financial implications of remaining at Guaranteed Rate Field. He indicated that the team's value could increase significantly if moved to a different city, such as Nashville.
The White Sox's current stadium lease expires after 2029, but Reinsdorf expressed a desire to move to a new downtown location before then. He outlined a $1.1 billion stadium construction plan on the east side of the Chicago River that would require subsidies and infrastructure work, emphasizing the broader development benefits beyond just the ballpark.
Despite the team's past successes, including a 2005 World Series win, the White Sox have faced challenges in recent seasons, leading to changes in the front office. Reinsdorf's vision for the team's future hinges on the construction of a new stadium and development project south of downtown, aimed at revitalizing the area and enhancing the team's revenue-generating potential.
Fans have voiced mixed opinions on Reinsdorf's stance, with some viewing him as the main obstacle to the team's success. As discussions continue regarding the White Sox's future, the possibility of a relocation looms large, raising questions about the team's long-standing ties to Chicago.