The Chicago White Sox recently found themselves embroiled in controversy following a social media post intended to commemorate Black History Month. The post, which highlighted various significant moments and figures in the team's history related to Black players and executives, notably omitted or downplayed the contributions of Frank Thomas, widely regarded as the greatest player in White Sox history. This oversight, combined with the organization's subsequent silence, led to significant backlash from fans, media, and Thomas himself, exposing underlying tensions and communication failures within the franchise.
The incident unfolded shortly after the SoxFest Live event in 2026, when the team's social media department published a timeline acknowledging Black History Month. While it featured 16 different items, including mentions of the first Negro League All-Star Game at Comiskey Park and former vice president Ken Williams, a key figure was conspicuously absent from a rightful position of prominence. Frank Thomas, a two-time MVP, whose No. 35 is retired and who has a statue outside the stadium, was only briefly mentioned in connection with another player. This glaring omission raised questions about the thoroughness and attention to detail of the social media team.
The post's perceived slight prompted an immediate and strong reaction from Frank Thomas. He took to social media to express his disappointment, stating that the player who contributed significantly to the team's success and held numerous records appeared to be "forgettable." This candid response from Thomas quickly garnered support from fans who shared his sentiment, believing the organization had disrespected a legend. The situation was further exacerbated by the inclusion of lesser-known players or figures with less impact on the team's history, while more prominent Black players like Jermaine Dye, Tommie Agee, and Tim Anderson were also overlooked.
The controversy shed light on the White Sox's broader management issues and their often strained relationships with former players. Thomas, who had quietly distanced himself from the organization after concluding his broadcast analyst role in 2024, confirmed his lack of current ties with the team. This event, many believe, was merely the latest in a series of missteps that have fueled the separation between Thomas and the White Sox. Despite attempts by a team spokesman to reach out to Thomas, the organization's refusal to issue a public apology or directly address the issue further intensified criticism.
The article suggests that the responsibility for the social media blunder and the handling of its aftermath ultimately lies with executive vice president Brooks Boyer, who oversees the social media department. The author implies that a lack of decisive action from top leadership, including Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf, has perpetuated a culture where such significant oversights occur and go unaddressed. The current leadership's focus on future endeavors rather than rectifying past errors, as well as the team's ongoing struggles, suggest a disconnect between the management and the passionate fanbase, who, like Thomas, feel a deep sense of ownership over the team's history and legacy.
This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and honoring a team's historical figures, especially those who have made significant contributions. The White Sox's failure to appropriately acknowledge Frank Thomas in their Black History Month tribute not only caused public embarrassment but also deepened a rift with a beloved former player. The incident underscores the need for genuine appreciation and thoughtful communication within sports organizations to maintain strong relationships with their legends and their dedicated fanbase.