Chicago White Sox considering moving stadiums when Guaranteed Rate Field lease expires: report

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Crain's Chicago Business reports that Chicago White Sox Owner Jerry Reinsdorf is considering moving the team from Guaranteed Rate Field when the team's lease expires.

But diehard Sox fans say, think again.

"I think it would be very sad," said fan Crystal Goulding. "Look at these people coming to this game on a work night. I think it's part of Chicago's history and it would be lovely to see them stay here and not move."

The White Sox issued a statement on Monday evening, saying, "We have not had any conversations about our lease situation, but with six years remaining, it is naturally nearing a time where discussions should begin to take place. The conversations would be with the city, ISFA and the state and most likely would be about vision, opportunities and the future."

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Former Chicago Tribune sportswriter Fred Mitchell said that if there is a move, the team has a lot to consider.

"Teams are looking not only for the stadiums or ballparks, but they're looking at the area around in terms of revenue-based opportunities," he said.

The city is already trying to keep the Chicago Bears from leaving town; their lease at Soldier Field is up in 10 years. But the White Sox's lease is up even sooner.

Fans say the team's current home is part of its history.

"It just makes you proud that we have a team on the South Side. It's something for us to celebrate," said fan Regina Long.

"What's the White Sox without the South Side and vice versa?" said fan Keena Preston.

The Sox were close to moving to Florida in 1988, when former Gov. Jim Thompson turned back the clock in Springfield in the 11th hour to approve a tax-subsidized new Comiskey Park, which opened in 1991.

More than 30 years later, fans don't want another close call.

"If that happens, I think the current Governor needs to step in and keep them in Chicago," said Charmaine Gillette, fan.

"It will never happen," said Long. "Stay in Chicago!"