Paul Konerko, the Chicago White Sox’s first baseman, officially retired last weekend. He has been a member of the White Sox’s organization since the 1995 season. In 2005 he helped lead them to a World Series Championship. Ever since then Konerko has been the leader and team captain both on and off the field.
With both his leadership and athletic talent the White Sox are going all out to celebrate his retirement. They are retiring his number, meaning no other player in that franchise will be able to wear #14. Also, at last Saturday’s game the team unveiled a bronze statue of Konerko. The statue is located inside of US Cellular Field just passed the left-field bleachers and shows Konerko with a pose from their 2005 World Series victory. In addition to the statue, the organization presented Konerko with the grand slam ball he hit back in 2005 during the World Series, a couple of guitars, bats and balls made by former White Sox player Ron Kittle, an original Konerko-themed oil painting, and a display of baseballs signed by each of his 2005 teammates.
It was great to see a player of his caliber being honored by the team and the fans. The White Sox have retired nine other players and haven’t done so since the late 90’s, putting Paul Konerko in good company with other White Sox greats.
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