The Chicago White Sox had little comment Monday as news emerged that their new manager — baseball legend Tony La Russa — was charged with driving under the influence last month.
The Phoenix-area DUI case actually dates back to early this year, ESPN reported, citing court records. La Russa, 76, allegedly ran his vehicle into a curb on Feb. 24, failed a field-sobriety test and refused to submit to a blood-alcohol analysis. Blood samples were drawn by police after they reportedly were granted a search warrant.
La Russa was not charged with DUI until Oct. 28, a day before the White Sox made their announcement of the hire, ESPN reported. There may have been some confusion about who had jurisdiction in the case, the ESPN report said, in explaining the lag.
La Russa declined comment when reached by ESPN, and the White Sox would only say they were aware of the case but not when they became aware of it.
The White Sox’s announcement late last month that the team had hired La Russa, who served a previous stint as manager for the South Siders, generated mixed emotions among fans. Though his record speaks for itself, some critics questioned whether the old-schooler has the stamina to steer the rebuilt White Sox.
The Hall of Fame manager has won the World Series three times.
La Russa previously pleaded guilty to misdemeanor DUI in Jupiter, Florida in 2007, ESPN reported.
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