Tony La Russa Rejoins the Chicago White Sox as GM: Legendary Manager Who Led the Team to the 1983 ALCS, a 2021 Division Title, and Climbed to Second All-Time in Wins Returns to Guide the Franchise Once Again
In a stunning and nostalgic move that’s sure to excite longtime fans, Tony La Russa is once again taking on a leadership role with the Chicago White Sox—this time as the team’s new General Manager. Known as one of the most iconic figures in baseball history, La Russa’s deep connection with the franchise goes back over four decades, and his return signals a new era built on both legacy and ambition.
La Russa’s most significant achievement during his first managerial stint with the White Sox came in 1983, when he led the club to an impressive 99-win season, clinching the AL West title and securing a trip to the American League Championship Series—the team’s first postseason appearance since 1959. That magical season earned La Russa his first Manager of the Year award, setting the stage for a Hall of Fame career.
From 1979 to 1986, La Russa steadily developed the White Sox into contenders, including an 87-win campaign in 1982. His influence laid a foundation that would eventually make him one of the most respected minds in the game. After successful tenures with the Oakland A’s and St. Louis Cardinals, where he won three World Series titles combined, La Russa made a triumphant return to the South Side in 2020.
In his comeback season of 2021, La Russa once again showcased his magic, guiding the White Sox to a Central Division title. During this second stint, he also passed John McGraw to become second on the all-time managerial wins list—an incredible milestone that cements his legacy as one of the greatest to ever wear the skipper’s cap.
Now, as General Manager, La Russa will shift from the dugout to the front office, where his wealth of experience, keen baseball intellect, and deep-rooted passion for the franchise could usher in a bold new chapter. For White Sox fans, this is more than a hire—it’s a homecoming.