The Chicago White Sox introduced Pedro Grifol as their new manager. He is going to be the guy who tries to help this team take a big step back into contention after what was a very disappointing 81-81 season. Baseball's most lethargic team was just given a bolt of energy.
On Thursday, the White Sox introduced Grifol as the manager through a presser that took place at Guaranteed Rate Field. Len Kasper was the host of the event and then Grifol spoke and took questions along with Rick Hahn.
The press conference was loaded with talk about the state of the team along with ideas that will help them fix it. It is very exciting to hear some of these new things that Grifol plans to bring as the White Sox have never had anything like it.
Another thing that stood out was noticeable when you looked at the White Sox jersey that was presented to Grifol. He was given a jersey with the number five on the back. He had a couple of different numbers during his time with the Kansas City Royals but none of them were five.
The Chicago White Sox may have hinted at a player move on Thursday.
It appears to be a new number for the 42nd manager in the history of the White Sox. We have seen a World Series hero like Juan Uribe wear it but it could be a hint about a move the White Sox will make in the coming weeks as it was Josh Harrison's number in 2022 as well.
Harrison was okay at times in 2022 but it isn't a lock that the team will pick up his team option for 2023. If they can find an upgrade, they should go for it. He wasn't good enough to just settle with him because he is there. With a new manager in place, you'd like to see them put their best foot forward.
Of course, this could mean absolutely anything. Harrison could be brought back but just agreeing to change his number. Anything is possible but it could be a hint.
If the White Sox make other moves that better their roster and decide to bring Harrison back as their ninth hitter, that won't be too big of a deal but they will at least look for an upgrade. Regardless of what happens, this was an interesting detail from Grifol's opening presser.