In a statement on their website today, the Chicago White Sox have announced that they will retire Frank Thomas’ number. Thomas played for the White Sox from 1990 to 2005 and is regarded as not only one of the best players in White Sox history, but also one of the best hitters of a generation.

[photogallerylink id=26169 align=left]In addition to Thomas having his number retired, he will also be rejoining the organization as a team ambassador. Thomas will join the team’s speaking bureau which is already comprised of Carlton Fisk, Minnie Minoso, Ron Kittle, Bill Melton and Bill Skowron.The ceremony to retire The Big Hurt’s number will take place on August 29th on “Frank Thomas Day” at U.S. Cellular Field. Thomas’ number 35 will become the tenth number retired by the White Sox; the other nine being Nellie Fox (2), Harold Baines (3), Luke Appling (4), Minoso (9), Luis Aparicio (11), Ted Lyons (16), Billy Pierce (19), Jackie Robinson (42) and Fisk (72).