C
hicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed openness to using public funds for a Major League Baseball stadium as part of the $7 billion South Loop development by Related Midwest. While he hasn't directly spoken with White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf about a potential sale, Johnson hopes the team stays in the city. The University of Illinois's recent withdrawal from its planned Discovery Partners Institute at the site has raised concerns for Related Midwest's long-term vision for The 78.

    Johnson is willing to engage in "real substantive conversations" about public funding for a stadium, which could integrate into The 78 and create a vibrant community centered around sports and innovation. However, any deal would need to benefit surrounding neighborhoods, similar to his support for the Chicago Bears' stalled taxpayer-funded stadium proposal.

    Alderman Nicole Lee of the 11th Ward, where Guaranteed Rate Field is located, wants to keep the team in Chicago, especially if it benefits her neighborhood. She believes Jerry Reinsdorf's goal is to secure the White Sox's future in Chicago, and a sale could bring them closer to achieving that. Johnson emphasized that any proposal would require ownership to "put some skin in the game" and be willing to invest in the project.