Mark Buehrle's No. 56 will be retired by White Sox

Nobody has worn No. 56 for the Chicago White Sox since Mark Buehrle left the team in 2011 and now nobody ever will.

The White Sox announced Thursday that they’ll retire No. 56 this season in honor of Buehrle, who played 12 seasons on the South Side. In that time, he threw a perfect game, a no-hitter and helped the White Sox win the 2005 World Series. He also won 161 of his 214 career games in a White Sox uniform, and created a bond with the franchise that merited No. 56 belonging to him forever. The ceremony is scheduled for June 24.

 

White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said in a statement released by the team:

“Mark Buehrle is one of the most accomplished pitchers in franchise history. Mark carried himself with class and professionalism throughout his career, and his popularity with staff, teammates and Sox fans is very well deserved. Although a very humble person, he certainly showed a flair for the dramatic on the mound, from a no-hitter to an unforgettable perfect game to a World Series title.

“A standout on the field and a standup 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.”

Mark Buehrle after completing his perfect game in 2009. (AP)

The White Sox are a team that likes to honor its best. Remember when they unveiled a Paul Konerko statue in his final days in uniform? These days the Sox don’t wait years and years like some teams. Buehrle’s only been retired one season, ending his career after the 2015 season and three years with the Blue Jays.

Buehrle also liked to work quick. Among the things he’ll be remembered for in baseball is his ability to pitch quick games, hit the 200-innings-per-season mark (he did it 14 straight years) and throw complete games. He threw 27 of them in his team with the White Sox.

And now there’s completeness here too. Buehrle’s No. 56 joining the likes of Konerko, Frank Thomas, Carlton Fisk, Harold Baines and Minnie Minoso as White Sox greats who have their numbers retired.