White Sox Retire Ozzie Guillén’s Jersey and Rally for a Walk-Off Win in the Home Opener

The Chicago White Sox retired Ozzie Guillen’s No. 13 jersey and secured a dramatic 5-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in their home opener on Friday, marking a memorable day for team owner Jerry Reinsdorf and fans at Guaranteed Rate Field.

The day began with an emotional moment during a live broadcast on CHSN, as Reinsdorf gave his approval to retire Guillen’s jersey. Guillen, who has been both a player and manager for the White Sox since 1985, was visibly moved. “I told him I was happy to make him cry,” Reinsdorf said, referencing the tribute to the longtime South Side figure.

Later, more than 33,000 fans watched the White Sox battle through extra innings to claim their first home win of the season. After allowing a major-league high 52 runs in a difficult 1-5 start, the team rallied in the 10th inning. The Blue Jays tied the game in the top of the inning on a fielding error, but the White Sox responded with a daring two-out bunt by Derek Hill. Taking advantage of an infield shift and a backup catcher in play for Toronto, Hill’s bunt led to a game-tying run. Moments later, outfielder Tristan Peters delivered the game-winning single to right field, capping a dramatic finish. Peters, who previously played with the entertainment baseball team Savannah Bananas, celebrated the walkoff hit in his first week with the White Sox.

The eventful day also marked Reinsdorf’s 46th home opener as chairman. Following the game, he noted the team's needs for improved pitching but expressed optimism. The White Sox currently remain focused on building consistency after a challenging season start.