For over a century, the White Sox have made various incarnations of their ballpark along 35th Street in Bridgeport, from Comiskey Park to Guaranteed Rate Field, their cherished home. However, their lease for Guaranteed Rate Field is set to expire in six years, and owner Jerry Reinsdorf is reportedly contemplating a potential move or even selling the team.
While Guaranteed Rate Field may not hold the same sentimental value as the old Comiskey Park, which stood across 35th Street from 1910 to 1990, it remains a beloved spot for White Sox fans.
For loyal fans, moving the team away from the South Side of Chicago is met with strong opposition. They see the ballpark as a vital part of their community, an essential source of energy, history, and camaraderie.
The idea of the White Sox relocating to the suburbs or potentially out of town, with Nashville being mentioned as a possible destination, has sparked concern among supporters. Many believe that the team’s commitment to the South Side, its impact on the local community, and the jobs it creates should take precedence.
White Sox spokesperson Scott Reifert emphasized that while there have been no formal discussions about the lease situation, the time is approaching for talks to begin. Any such conversations would involve the city, ISFA (Illinois Sports Facilities Authority), and the state, likely focusing on future opportunities and visions for the team’s future.
Photo credit – BallparkBlueprints.com / Chicago, IL