The White Sox will have a new television voice next season as the team plans not to extend John Schriffen’s contract.
The team announced the decision Monday afternoon, as Schriffen becomes the latest commentator to part ways with their franchise.
The 42-year-old Schriffen became the club’s main television play-by-play broadcaster before the 2024 season on a three-year deal.
Schriffen’s final season in Chicago was an eventful one, including 11 walk-off wins for the surprising club.
The White Sox clinched a spot in the postseason as the American League’s third wild card before getting eliminated in five games by AL Central division winners Guardians in the ALDS.
“I’m grateful to the Chicago White Sox organization for the opportunity to call games over the past three seasons,” Schriffen said in a statement following the team’s announcement.
“Being part of this team’s turnaround and playoff run was truly special.”
Chicago’s television analyst Steve Stone and on-field reporter Brooke Fletcher will return next season.
The White Sox now begin the search for Schriffen’s replacement with MLB.com listing some possible options including former ESPN broadcaster Karl Ravech, who was let go by ESPN this summer after 33 years as one of the faces of their baseball coverage.
The report also mentioned Connor Onion, an Illinois native who is Fox’s No. 2 college football broadcaster, Angels TV voice Wayne Randazzo and Connor McKnight, who is part of the broadcast as the team’s reporter who does occassional play-by-play work.
“John has been a true professional throughout his three seasons with the White Sox, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a distinctive style to our broadcasts,” Brooks Boyer, the organization’s executive vice president and chief revenue/marketing officer, said on Monday. “As his contract comes to an end, we believe this is the appropriate time to evaluate the direction of our broadcasts and determine what is best for the organization and our fans moving forward.”
“We are appreciative of John’s contributions and the connection he built with our fanbase. We wish him continued success in his future endeavors.”
During Schriffen’s first two seasons, the team posted at least 100 losses in three years, including a Modern Era single-season record of 121 losses during Schriffen’s debut in 2024.
White Sox fans would yell, “Show me the Mune,” when Schriffen visited tailgates around Rate Field or spotted them on the field before games, echoing his call whenever Munetaka Murakami hit one of his 35 home runs.
The connection with fans wasn’t universal, but Schriffen truly appreciated their support during his time with the team.
“I want to thank White Sox fans for welcoming me to Chicago and for their support throughout my time here. I’ll always cherish the memories and look forward to what’s next,” Schriffen said.
