(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Mayor Brandon Johnson is choosing his words carefully in reacting to reports that Jerry Reinsdorf is considering selling the Chicago White Sox, but he clearly wants the team to stay in the city.
At a West Side news conference, Mayor Johnson was asked how he feels about reports that the White Sox owner is considering selling the team.
“I have not spoken to Jerry about, you know, his contemplation of his company essentially,” Johnson said.
The Athletic reported Wednesday that Reinsdorf is open to selling the franchise. That reported said he was in conversation with former MLB pitcher Dave Stewart about a potential sale.
Stewart has previously worked to bring an expansion franchise to Nashville. However, it is unknown what the intention would be if Stewart and his group acquired the White Sox.
Still, Mayor Johnson says he hopes Reinsdorf and his family find a way to keep the team in Chicago.
“Sports in general are a major economic driver, not just for the city of Chicago, but the entire region, the world. While I was in London, that was part of our discussion, trying to attract international football, if you will to set up shop in Chicago.
"We're talking about a multibillion dollar industry in sports and entertainment."
Additionally, he says the White Sox have been an economic boon to the neighborhoods around Guaranteed Rate Field.
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