White Sox hire Sizemore as interim manager after firing Grifol

The Chicago White Sox dismissed manager Pedro Grifol and named Grady Sizemore as his interim replacement, the team announced Thursday.

The White Sox also fired bench coach Charlie Montoyo, third base coach Eddie Rodriguez, and assistant hitting coach Mike Tosar.

Chicago is 28-89 on the season and snapped a 21-game losing streak Tuesday against the Oakland Athletics. However, the club lost again Wednesday in the series finale versus the A's.

"As we all recognize, our team's performance this season has been disappointing on many levels," general manager Chris Getz said in a statement. "Despite the on-field struggles and lack of success, we appreciate the effort and professionalism Pedro and the staff brought to the ballpark every day. These two seasons have been challenging. Unfortunately, the results were not there, and a change is necessary as we look to our future and the development of a new energy around the team."

Grifol was in his second season at the helm of the White Sox. He led the team to a dismal 61-101 record in his first campaign.

He accumulated an 89-190 record as Chicago's skipper.

"Grateful to Jerry (Reinsdorf), Rick (Hahn), and Kenny (Williams) for the opportunity," Grifol told Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times. "I have health and a loving family. I have a spiritual foundation that gives me incredible strength, peace, and freedom. This won't break me. As a matter of fact, it only motivates me.

"The next thing I do in my life, I will do it for the love and passion I have for this game and for the sole purpose of serving others."

Sizemore served as Chicago's major-league coach under Grifol before being promoted into his new role.

The former star retired from MLB at 32 after injuries derailed his promising career. Sizemore made three All-Star teams over an eight-year stretch with the AL Central rival Cleveland franchise.