Watch CBS News

Reinsdorf Pulls Cubs Zinger At SoxFest

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Jerry Reinsdorf, owner of the White Sox and Bulls, is one of Chicago's most important sports figures. He's hoping to even see the neighbors to the north, the Cubs, win a championship.

But there's a catch.

"I sincerely hope the Cubs do win the World Series," said Reinsdorf at the annual SoxFest, offering a timely pause. "After I die."

Of course, the sellout crowd at SoxFest exploded with cheers for the chairman. Reinsdorf was making a rare public appearance to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the 2005 White Sox World Series title, with key figures such as Aaron Rowand, Joe Crede, Scott Podsednik, Bobby Jenks and more attending the weekend event at Hilton Hotel on Michigan Avenue.

The 2015 White Sox have lofty expectations, too. New additions Jeff Samardzija, Melky Cabrera, Adam LaRoche, Zach Duke and David Robertson join a cast that includes Rookie of the Year Jose Abreu, Chris Sale, Avisail Garcia and many more. Hopes are high at U.S. Cellular Field.

A movement to win-now mode began with restocking the organization in down years, bringing in promising talents like Garcia in trades, and continued with an offseason flurry of trades and signings. White Sox general manager Rick Hahn built a team ready to content for the A.L. Central crown.

"I think we're built to win," Samardzija said.

SoxFest continues through Sunday at the Hilton, with many more quotes sure to follow.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.