Chicago Whitesox…A Winning Squad
In 1901, the Chicago Whitesox joined Major League Baseball, becoming Chicago’s second team. Originally known as the White Stockings, the name was shortened after newspapers began using the “Sox” name in their headlines. Although they have many nicknames, the team is often referred to as the “South Siders” just as the Cubs are known as the North Siders.
In 1906, the Chicago Whitesox made it to the World Series despite having the worst batting average in the league that year. They played against their cross town rivals the Cubs, winning in six games. They made it back to the Series in 1917, winning that year against the Giants.
The team went back again in 1919, and was heavily favored to win; however, in a major upset the Whitesox lost to the Cincinnati Reds in what was later to be confirmed as a fixed game. This resulted in seven of the Whitesox players being suspended pending an investigation close to the end of the 1920 season, effectively ending the year for the team. Although no criminal charges were ever filed due to a disappearance of the evidence, the players were banned from baseball for life. To this day the 1919 World Series is referred to as the “Black Sox Scandal.”
In total, the Chicago Whitesox have won three World Series titles, the latest being in 2005. They have also taken home seven American League pennants, three Central division titles, and two West Division titles. They were in first place in 1994 when a player strike ended the season eight weeks early, although no titles or awards were ever given for that year.
For most of the 1900’s Comiskey Park was home to the Whitesox, although at times the stadium was also known as White Sox Park. In 1991, they moved to their new home which was also known as Comiskey Park. In 2003, it became known as US Cellular Field after the company of the same name bought the naming rights for 20 years.
Costing 167 million dollars to build, the stadium seats 40,615 fans, although when it was built there was seating for thousands more. The stadium has been featured in several movies, playing the role of many different stadiums.
Out in their community, the Chicago Whitesox are as faithful to their fans as their fans are to them. Through the Chicago White Sox Charities, events are hosted in the park to raise money to be donated to area charities and programs that serve the less fortunate in the community.
In 2009 the White Sox Volunteer Corp was initiated. Since then members including fans and players have donated their time, energy, and even their blood to help others in need. They participate in blood banks, help repair schools, and volunteer at the Boys and Girls Clubs and food depository. The White Sox Wives are also active, hosting fundraisers to benefit non-profit organizations.
Throughout their rocky history, the Chicago Whitesox have given their fans something to cheer about. From their community efforts to the exciting games of baseball on the field, there is nothing quite like being a White Sox fan.
