CHICAGO, Ill. — Baseball Hall of Famer Frank Thomas expressed sharp disappointment with the Chicago White Sox after the team excluded him from a Black History Month graphic posted on social media Sunday. Thomas, who spent 16 seasons with the White Sox and remains one of the franchise’s most celebrated players, took to the platform X to voice his frustration over the omission.
Thomas, known as “The Big Hurt,” dominated the White Sox lineup from 1990 to 2005, earning back-to-back American League MVP awards and setting franchise records in several key statistical categories. He holds the team records for home runs (448), runs batted in (1,465), doubles (447), on-base percentage (.427), slugging percentage (.568), OPS (.995), and walks (1,466).
In a pointed message, Thomas wrote, “I guess the Black player who made you rich over there and holds all your records is forgettable! Don’t worry I’m taking Receipts!” His comments came after the White Sox shared a graphic highlighting significant milestones by Black players and executives in the organization’s history. The tribute included Minne Miñoso, who broke the team’s color barrier; Al Smith, the first Black All-Star in franchise history in 1960; Danny Goodwin, the first African American player selected with the top draft pick by the White Sox in 1971; and Kenny Williams, the first African American general manager in Chicago sports history.
The White Sox’s Black History Month post aimed to honor these trailblazers and their impact on the franchise and the sport. However, the absence of Thomas — a player whose achievements have left an indelible mark on the team — sparked a backlash and raised questions about the scope and inclusivity of the team’s recognition efforts.
Thomas’s reaction highlights broader conversations within professional sports about how teams and leagues commemorate the contributions of Black athletes and leaders. The National Baseball Hall of Fame, which enshrined Thomas in 2014, celebrates his career as a pivotal chapter in baseball history, underscoring his influence both on and off the field.
As Black History Month continues to be observed across Major League Baseball, many teams have sought to spotlight the pioneers and legends who shaped the game. The MLB’s official Black History Month page offers resources and stories celebrating these contributions. Meanwhile, the White Sox’s omission of Thomas has drawn attention to the importance of recognizing living legends alongside historical figures.
Thomas’s critique also resonates with ongoing efforts by organizations like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum to preserve and promote the legacy of Black players. The Hall of Fame continues to serve as a vital institution in acknowledging the achievements of players who broke barriers and excelled at the highest levels.
In response to the controversy, the White Sox have not issued a formal statement addressing the omission. However, the incident has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about how sports franchises commemorate their history and honor the players who define their identity.
Frank Thomas’s legacy with the White Sox remains significant, not only because of his statistical dominance but also due to his role as a cultural icon in Chicago sports. His reaction serves as a reminder that recognition and respect are essential components of celebrating Black History Month in sports and beyond.
For more information on the history of Black players in baseball and ongoing initiatives to celebrate their impact, visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Baseball Hall of Fame websites.
