Former Mets GM makes case for firing Robin Ventura

Former Mets general manager and current MLB analyst Steve Phillips made the case Tuesday morning for the White Sox firing Robin Ventura.

Appearing on Comcast SportsNet Chicago’s “Kap & Haugh” show, Phillips offered insight from the perspective of someone who has sat in the GM’s chair. Firing Ventura, he said, is the typical recourse for a team going through the Sox’ problems.

“The team’s not getting it done,” he said. “They look lethargic, and there’s obviously something wrong with the construction that not many anticipated. But there is something wrong with the environment and culture. They can’t get anything going. I’m not a fan of change for change sake, but you have to give fans a reason to hope. And when there’s big expectations, somebody has to pay. Usually it’s the manager.”

The White Sox are 32-42, which represents the worst record in the American League. The disappointing season follows an offseason spending spree that saw the Sox add closer David Robertson, starter Jeff Samardzija, and sluggers Melky Cabrera and Adam LaRoche.

The Sun-Times’ Chris De Luca made the case Monday for firing Ventura and re-hiring Ozzie Guillen.