Chicago — With his father Jim at the head of the pack, Patrick Leyland is a humorous and perceptive baseball remark that falls squarely into the “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree” category.
However, in an interview conducted shortly after he discovered that Jim had been elected to the Hall of Fame by the Contemporary Era Baseball Committee Managers/Executive/Umpires Ballot, the White Sox Single-A Kannapolis affiliate’s 2023 manager confessed that he was at a loss for words when asked to explain what this incredible honor for his father meant to his family.
When we spoke the day after the interview in question, Patrick laughed and said, “I felt like I tripped over myself my entire time trying to answer that question.” To be honest, it’s difficult to describe. It is, in fact.
“I’m overjoyed for him. There is undoubtedly some comfort there. It clearly crosses your thoughts when you learn he’s on the ballot and wait a certain period of time. I’m sure he desired it. We want it for him, and as he stated, that’s the final destination. Nothing further needs to be done. That is all. We are so grateful that he was able to enter. It’s simply incredibly humble.
Jim Leyland managed 22 seasons with the Pirates, Marlins, Rockies, and Tigers. He led Detroit to the American League pennant in 2006 and ’12 and the Marlins to a World Series victory in 1997. Give this outstanding resume 1,769 career victories to add to it.
Jim and the younger Leyland—who the Tigers selected in the eighth round of the 2010 MLB Draft—spoke with me in the summer of 2021 about their mutual love of baseball and some of Patrick’s best recollections of his childhood spent playing the game. Jim began his major league coaching career as the third base coach for the White Sox under Tony La Russa from 1982 to 1985. Meanwhile, Patrick started his bench career in the Minor Leagues with the same team.
After managing his first full-season squad in 2024, Patrick is under contract with the White Sox, though he isn’t sure where he’ll be yet.
“I truly enjoy the work, and it’s been a dream of mine for a long, long time,” Patrick remarked. “I adore my work.” I adore the obligations that go along with it. I adore the competitive spirit. I absolutely loved working with the players and coaches that the White Sox have, and I had a great time doing it. It truly is a privilege.
“I only attended three games; I avoid the crowds.” During his Hall of Fame press appearance at this month’s Winter Meetings in Nashville, Jim stated of Patrick, “He’s on his own.” He must merit it on his own. We converse frequently. In terms of some of the tactics and other things that are used in the game these days, he is a little more advanced than I am. Like his dad, my son is a baseball nut, but I won’t sit here and brag about him. He seems like a decent guy to me. He is going to have to work for his own opportunities, and I believe that he may.
Patrick was at home with Jim when he got the news about being inducted into the Hall of Fame. After Jim decided he wasn’t getting that particular call, he went upstairs to gather himself. Patrick then followed to see how Jim was doing and to remind him that there was still time.
After the call, Patrick gave his father a hug. Before Patrick’s mother, sister, and girlfriend participated in the festivities, Patrick truly remarked to Jim, “You earned it.” Support poured in from everyone Leyland knew and had an impact on.
Patrick remarked, “What I’m most proud of—and I may have actually told you this before—is how real and genuine he is in doing the media stuff and everything after.” He is the epitome of authenticity.
It’s just who he is and how he handles others that matters in his work. That was clearly accomplished, and we are quite proud of him.