MLB: Chicago White Sox fires Vice President Kenny Williams and GM Rick Hahn as franchise admits it’s been a ‘very disappointing’ year
- The White Sox have a miserable 49-76 record so far into the 2023 season
- Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf says he had no choice but to fire Williams and Hahn
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The Chicago White Sox have fired Executive Vice President Kenny Williams and Senior Vice President/General Manager Rick Hahn.
In a statement released Tuesday night, the White Sox commented on a “very disappointing” season for the franchise while also announcing that Williams and Hahn were relieved of their duties as a result of that season.
“This is an incredibly difficult decision for me,” said chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, “because they are both talented individuals with long-term relationships in the White Sox.”
“Ken is like a son to me and I will always consider him a member of my family.” I would like to personally thank Ken and Rick for everything they have done for the Chicago White Sox, winning the 2005 World Series and more Reaching the postseason during her tenure.
“I have the utmost respect for them as people and appreciate the dedication and passion they have shown for the White Sox over the years.”
The Chicago White Sox have fired Vice President Kenny Williams (left) and General Manager Rick Hahn (right).
“Ultimately, the well-known cliché that professional sport is results-driven is correct.” While we as an organization celebrated achievements and entered the competitive window of this rebuild with optimism, this year proved to be very disappointing for all of us in many ways.
“This has led me to the conclusion that the best decision for the future of the organization is to change the leadership of our baseball division.”
Chicago has a 49-76 record in 2023, putting them fourth on the AL Central as the season closes.
The organization is currently on track for one of its worst 162-game seasons ever, despite adding players like Lucas Giolito, Dylan Cease, Luis Robert and Eloy Jimenez to its ranks.
The White Sox also vowed to begin a search for a “single decision maker to lead baseball’s operations department” and to fill the position by the end of the season.
In a statement of his own Tuesday night, Williams thanked fans “who have done their best over the years to offer support and encouragement.”
He also added: “At my first press conference I was talking about winning several championships.” That was my goal, our goal and we failed.
“I’m a bottom line guy, and bottom line we didn’t make it.” This happens as a result.
Chicago has a miserable 49-76 record so far in 2023, ranking fourth in the AL Central
“There is a lot of talent at this club and I wish the players, Pedro and the coaching staff all the best in achieving their goals.” I believe they will bounce back and bring a great 2024 season to the baseball world.”
Williams was in his 11th season as executive vice president with the Sox, having previously served 12 seasons as general manager and leading them as GM to the 2005 World Series Championship and the 2008 American League Central title.
The 59-year-old also served as Chicago’s director of minor league operations from 1995-1996 and vice president of player development from 1997-2000.
Hahn, meanwhile, enjoyed 11 full seasons as general manager and led the Sox to back-to-back postseason appearances in 2020 as a wildcard and 2021 as the AL Central champion. Previously, he was Deputy General Manager for 12 years.