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White Sox to retire Mark Buehrle’s number

GLENDALE, Ariz. — The White Sox announced Thursday they will retire Mark Buehrle’s No. 56 jersey during a ceremony before the game June 24 against the Athletics.

One of the most popular and successful players to wear a Sox -uniform, the left-hander will be the 11th Sox, along with Jackie Robinson, to have his number retired.

“Mark Buehrle is one of the most accomplished pitchers in franchise history,” chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said in a statement. “Mark carried himself with class and professionalism throughout his career, and his popularity with staff, teammates and Sox fans is very well deserved.”

Drafted by the Sox in the 38th round in 1998, Buehrle made his debut in 2000 and went on to become a four-time All-Star, three-time Gold Glove winner and World Series champion. During his career with the Sox, he went 161-119 with a 3.83 ERA and 27 complete games in 365 starts.

Buehrle ranks fourth among franchise leaders in strikeouts, starts and quality starts and is sixth in wins. After the Sox didn’t -re-sign him in 2011, Buehrle signed a four-year, $58 million deal with the Marlins, pitched one season in Miami and three in Toronto. He led the American League in complete games in his last season.

Buehrle quite possibly ranks as pitching coach Don Cooper’s favorite pitcher he has worked with. Buehrle worked fast and excelled with an upper-80s fastball.

“He did it first by location, second movement, three changing speeds,” Cooper said. “And nothing bothered him.”

Buehrle made four appearances, including three starts, for the Sox’ 2005 World Series champs in the postseason.

“Mark is one of my favorite people, and that is saying a lot,” said Ozzie Guillen, manager of the 2005 team. “He was the best teammate ever. Everyone loved this man. -Everyone.”

Buehrle earned a win and a save in the Fall Classic. He hurled the 16th no-hitter in club history on April 18, 2007, against the Rangers and the franchise’s second perfect game on July 23, 2009, against the Rays.

Buehrle remained popular after he left the club. Many fans remained hopeful he would somehow make his way back to pitch before retiring. Cooper even discussed the possibility, although the seriousness of the talk is not known.

“On Opening Day last year, he sent a [text] message,” Cooper said. “We’re sitting on the bench in Oakland, and I sent it back and I said, ‘You want to come back? You want to make a comeback?’ And he says something to the effect of, ‘You’ve got guys that outdo me now.’ I said ‘I’m not so sure about that.’

“We talk from time to time, and now he’s enjoying his retirement, enjoying his family, his kids, which are important to him, and enjoying his house, his farm, his hunting, all of that stuff. So wish him all nothing but the best.’’

All fans in attendance June 24 will receive a specially designed No. 56 pin.

“A standout on the field and a stand-up teammate in the clubhouse, it is our honor to retire Mark Buehrle’s No. 56 and to welcome him into the legendary class of all-time White Sox greats,” Reinsdorf said.

Follow me on Twitter @CST_soxvan.

Email: dvanschouwen@suntimes.com

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