5 in 50- The Chicago White Sox

Continuing my 5 in 50 series, today’s team is the Chicago White Sox.  This will be a list of the top 5 greatest players for the White Sox in the last 50 years. The criteria are as follows: Player must have been part of team for at least 5 full seasons since 1972. Both regular season and post season success will be measured (statistical leaders, awards, et). Players on this list can be from any position. Multiple players at the same position can be included. I’ll list the major accomplishments for each player only for the team they are selected.

Here is my list of the top 5 greatest White Sox players in the last 50 years.

5. Hal Baines (1980-1988 and 2 additional stints. 14 total seasons)- 4^th all-time in team home runs

4. Mark Buehrle (2000-2011)- 8^th all-time White Sox wins. 3-time gold glove winner. Pitched 2 no hitters (including perfect game)

3. Carlton Fisk (1981-1993)- 4^th all time home run leader in team history. American League record for most Home Runs by catcher.

2. Paul Konerko (1999-2014)- 2^nd all-time home runs and 2^nd all time in games played for White Sox. 2005 ALCS MVP. 2005 World Series Champion.

1. Frank Thomas (1990-2005)- 2-time MVP, all-time home run leader in team history. 1 batting title.

Honorable mention to Chris Sale, Robin Ventura, Wilbur Wood, and Jose Abreu.

Notes. Baines was a long time White Sox player who is in the Hall of Fame (somehow). He still holds the club record for home runs by a left-handed hitter. Buehrle is the only pitcher to throw multiple no-hitters and win multiple gold gloves. Fisk is a Hall of Famer and is 2^nd all time in games played by a catcher. Konerko is in the top 3 of most offensive categories with the White Sox. Thomas is a Hall of Famer who is 2^nd all-time home runs by a DH.

Next up in the 5 in 50 series is the Cleveland Indians