54-52 (.509)
League Note
Due to a mid-season players' strike, the season was divided into a first half and a second half. The division winner of each half played each other in a five-game divisional series. The Cincinnati Reds, despite having the best overall record during the season, finished 2nd in both halves, so did not qualify for the post-season.
Ballpark
Attendance
946,651 total
19,319 per game
19,319 per game
1981 Draft Picks
Round
Pick
Player
3
59
Bill Babcock P
5
110
Greg McClain 3B-OF
6
136
Max Diaz 3B-P
Related Content
Stories, Photos, Videos, Podcasts, and Publications featuring Chicago White Sox 1981 SeasonF i l t e r & S o r t Filter & Sort
35 minutes
1981–2022
As we gear up for the Chicago White Sox Home Run Derby, it's worth noting...
All-Time Chicago White Sox Home Run Derby Simulation / As we gear up for the Chicago White Sox Home Run Derby, it's worth noting the historical significance of the seasons these players represent. Carlton Fisk, who played for the Sox from 1981 to 1993, is perhaps best remembered for his 1985 season when he hit 37 homers, a career-high. Harold Baines, a consistent power hitter, had his best years in the mid-80s. His 1984 season was particularly impressive, with 29 home runs and a .304 batting average. Frank Thomas, often referred to as 'The Big Hurt', dominated the 90s, with his 1994 season standing out - he led the league with 38 home runs despite the season being cut short by a strike. Paul Konerko, who played from 1999 to 2014, was a key figure in the White Sox's 2005 World Series victory. His 2004 season saw him hit a career-high 41 home runs. This Derby, therefore, is not just a contest of power, but a walk through some of the most memorable seasons in White Sox history.
58 minutes
1981
In this 1981 audio clip, we are taken on a journey through the illustrious career...
Announcer Bob Elson Remembered - Radio Broadcaster / In this 1981 audio clip, we are taken on a journey through the illustrious career of legendary radio broadcaster Bob Elson. The year 1981 marked a significant period in Elson's career as he had already spent over five decades in the business, lending his voice to some of the most memorable moments in baseball history. Known for his straightforward yet captivating style, Elson's broadcasts were a staple in American households, making baseball more than just a sport, but a shared experience.
Across the microphone, we hear the voice of the interviewer, an anonymous radio professional who expertly guides the conversation, giving Elson the space to reminisce about his classic calls. The interviewer, though less known, plays a crucial role in this clip, providing a platform for Elson to share his experiences and insights from his long-standing career. This audio clip serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bob Elson, a man whose voice became synonymous with the game of baseball itself.