Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Associated Press
CHICAGO
White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen was released from his contract Monday night to pursue other opportunities.
Guillen met with owner Jerry Reinsdorf for about 30 minutes earlier in the day. Guillen said he told Reinsdorf he would like to return, but only for a contract extension for more money. He had one year remaining on his current deal.
“We certainly cannot thank Ozzie enough for all he has done during his eight seasons as manager of the Chicago White Sox, highlighted by an unforgettable 2005 World Series championship,” Reinsdorf said in a release issued by the team following its 4-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays.
“I personally appreciate everything he has done for this organization, our fans and the city of Chicago. We shared the greatest moments together and wish him nothing but future success in baseball and in life.”
The White Sox said in the release they retain the right to compensation should Guillen accept a managerial position with another major league team for the 2012 season. Guillen, who had a 678-617 record with the White Sox, will not be in uniform for the remaining two games this year.
The Florida Marlins talked to Chicago last year about acquiring the colorful Guillen, but the deal never materialized. They could bring him in now to lead the club into a new ballpark next season.
Guillen is the only manager in franchise history to lead the White Sox to more than one division or league title. Chicago also made the playoffs under Guillen in 2008.
In the 2005 championship year, the White Sox nearly let a 15-game lead evaporate before rebounding in the final week of the regular season.
Then they went 11-1 in the postseason, clinching all three of their series against the Red Sox, the Angels and the Astros on the road.