CHICAGO — Tony LaRussa resigned as manager of the Chicago White Sox on Monday due to heart problems, ending a disappointing two-year stint with the same team where the Hall of Famer began his managerial career in the Major Leagues.
La Russa, a three-time World Series champion who turned 78 on Tuesday, missed the last 34 games with the White Sox. He left the team on August 30, and doctors finally told him to stay away from the dugout.
La Russa had a pacemaker implanted in February, and later, doctors discovered another heart problem the manager didn’t explain.
“With the duration of treatment and the process of recovering from this second health problem, it is obvious that he will not be the manager of the White Sox in 2023,” he said in a statement. “The timing of this announcement now allows management to balance the managerial position with their other off-season priorities.”
Chicago began the season with its sights on the World Series, but was plagued by injuries and ups and downs in performance. They were 79-80 heading into Monday night’s game against Minnesota.
“Our team’s record is the ultimate reality. It’s an unacceptable disappointment. There were some good moments, but there were many flaws,” La Russa said. “I was hired to provide positive, difference-making leadership and support. Our record is the proof. I didn’t do my job.”
Venezuela’s Miguel Cairo, the bench coach, took La Ruza’s place. The White Sox responded somewhat after the command change, winning 10 of 14 games. But they were beaten eight times in late September, ending their hopes of making the postseason.
A close friend of White Sox president Jerry Reinstort, La Russa was a surprise hire in October 2020, leading the team to the AL Central title last year.
