Flashback #98: Ozzie Guillen Era Ends (2011)

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September 26, 2011 - Ozzie Guillen era ends

Ozzie Guillen's time on the South Side was nothing short of unpredictable, and his departure from the White Sox was nothing different.

With two games remaining in the 2011 season, the White Sox agreed to let Guillen out of his contract after the two parties could not reach an agreement on a contract extension.

"It was my call and I appreciated the White Sox organization letting me do what I like to do and what is best. ... Maybe not the best, maybe it's the worst," Guillen said after managing his final game, a 4-3 win over the Blue Jays. "You don't know what is out there. Maybe I'm dreaming. I might not appreciate what I got here. You don't know. You have to close the page and move on. That's life. Hopefully the next book treats me the way this book treated me."

That new chapter involved a four-year contract to manage the Miami Marlins signed just a few days after his release from the White Sox.

Guillen had a rather tumultuous relationship with general manager Kenny Williams. Though the two started as friends, their relationship worsened over time. By the end of the 2011, it was obvious they could no longer work together.

Still, Guillen remained close with chairman Jerry Reisndorf.

Months after his release, reports circulated that Guillen had quit on the team, prompting Reinsdorf to release a statement exonerating the former skipper.

"Regarding Ozzie Guillen's departure as White Sox manager last September, I want to make it clear that he left with our organization's blessing and at my urging," said Reinsdorf. "Ozzie told me he wanted to finish out the year, the Marlins really wanted him in Miami for the conclusion of the season, and I told him that he had no choice but to go given the excitement surrounding the opening of their new stadium and the unveiling of their new uniforms.

Over eight seasons with the White Sox, Guillen posted a record of 678-617, including bringing the team its first World Series win in 88 year during the 2005 season.

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