Report: White Sox players, staff complained about Drake LaRoche

Chicago White Sox players and staff reportedly complained in private about Drake LaRoche’s presence.

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Some Chicago White Sox players and staff privately complained about the presence of Adam LaRoche’s son Drake, reportsUSA Today’s Bob Nightengale.

LaRoche retired earlier this week after White Sox vice president Kenny Williams told him to bring his son Drake around the team less. Since LaRoche’s retirement, numerous White Sox players—notably pitcher Chris Sale—have been vocal in their displeasure over Williams’s decision.

However, other members of the team were uncomfortable with Drake’s presence, reports Nightengale.

Drake was with the team for about 120 games last season, according to the report, and participated in team drills, flew with the White Sox on road trips and even had his own locker. From Nightengale:

• JAFFE: LaRoche retirement creating internal clash

And simply not everyone felt comfortable with Drake’s constant presence, even called the White Sox’s 26th man.

Apparently, no one ever told LaRoche. These players and staff members didn’t feel comfortable even sharing it with their own teammates, with several White Sox players saying they never heard a complaint. But they did express their views to management.

LaRoche had one year remaining on his two-year, $25 million contract when he retired. Chicago opens its regular season on April 4.

[USA Today]