Jerry Manuel was also fired today.

"We have nothing but the highest regard and respect for Jerry Manuel, the person and the man," General Manager Kenny Williams said in a statement. "However, since reaching the playoffs 2000 and despite high expectations, this team has not won enough baseball games. It remains our goal to reach the playoffs and, ultimately, the World Series.

"At this time, we have reached the conclusion that a new direction is necessary."

The talent-laden White Sox led the AL Central by two games on Sept. 9, but then fell apart and finished four games back.

Manuel was 500-471 in six seasons, the fourth-most wins for a White Sox manager. Chicago was .500 or better in each of the last four seasons, and finished below second place only once under Manuel, in 2001.

The White Sox won the AL Central in 2000, earning Manuel AL manager of the year honors. But Chicago was swept by Seattle in the playoffs, and hasn't been back to the postseason since.

"I understand the industry. I understand the business," Manuel said after Chicago's home finale Wednesday. "I'm not in this thing blindfolded."