White Sox thrilled with clubhouse makeover

CHICAGO -- The White Sox home opener last Friday was the first time many players and team personnel walked into the new home clubhouse at U.S. Cellular Field, which underwent its first signification renovation since the ballpark opened in 1991.

White Sox senior vice president of communications Scott Reifert entered the new digs with some of the players, who all gave the remodel rave reviews.

"I walked in, and I happened to be there when a couple other players came in, and it was a 'Wow!' -- which is what you want," Reifert said.

The renovations include new lockers and more space in the clubhouse, a larger weight room, new kitchen and dining area, and updated training, rehab and hydrotherapy rooms.

Senior vice president of stadium operations Terry Savarise and senior director of purchasing, construction and maintenance Don Esposito, along with the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority, led the project, taking recommendations from players and looking at newer ballparks around the league.

Although U.S. Cellular Field is entering its 25th season, it's among the older ballparks in the American League.

"When you look at 1991 and the needs of a Major League team and Major League players at that time, and you look now in 2015 at the needs of a Major League player, they've changed dramatically," Reifert said. "It was time to update the facility to meet those needs."

General manager Rick Hahn, manager Robin Ventura and center fielder Adam Eaton were all thrilled with the updates.

"They did a good job," Eaton said. "A couple additions here and there and updating the place, so it's good to come here and have a lot nicer stuff."

It was a much-needed update that lived up to expectations.

"It looks fantastic," Hahn said. "We are thrilled. It's something that was due, and everyone followed through on their promises."