Don Kessinger (46-60) is fired mid-season as the player-manager of the White Sox and will be replaced by rookie skipper Tony La Russa, who had been managing the club’s Triple-A Iowa Oaks in the American Association. During his eight-year tenure with Chicago, La Russa will compile a 522-510 record, with his team winning the AL West title in 1983.

On July 2, 1979 — Don Kessinger (46-60) is fired mid-season as the player-manager of the White Sox and will be replaced by rookie skipper Tony La Russa, who had been managing the club’s Triple-A Iowa Oaks in the American Association. During his eight-year tenure with Chicago, La Russa will compile a 522-510 record, with his team winning the AL West title in 1983.

Sources:
National Pastime January 28

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