(670 The Score) AJ Hinch never had an interview for the White Sox’s managerial vacancy, he told reporters Friday afternoon after being named the Detroit Tigers’ new manager.
Chicago did contact Hinch to gauge his interest in the job and he responded that it was appealing, Jeff Passan of ESPN reported, but that went no further because it was clear that chairman Jerry Reinsdorf and the White Sox were zeroed in on La Russa.
Hahn and the White Sox have maintained they interviewed other candidates besides La Russa. The White Sox interviewed Reds outfielder instructor Willie Harris for the opening, USA Today Sports reported, but no other names have surfaced on that front. Hahn indicated the organization wouldn’t reveal who else it interviewed because he believes it should be up to those who were bypassed whether they want that to be public knowledge.
Hinch was suspended for the 2020 season for his role in the Astros' sign-stealing scandal in 2017, when they won the World Series. Shortly after the White Sox fired Rick Renteria on Oct. 12, Hinch was connected to their opening. Hahn had expressed the desire to hire a manager with recent championship experience, and Hinch fit that bill.
Bruce Bochy, the former Giants manager who led San Francisco to three World Series titles, was the White Sox’s second choice if it didn’t work out with La Russa, Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports reported.