White Sox U.S. Cellular Field to get new name

Even though I'm a big Cubs fan, announcement of a name change of the White Sox home field is big news. In my mind and many others in the Chicago area, it will always be Comiskey Park. In 1990, the old Comiskey Park was used for its last White Sox season and a new ballpark was built beside it. The new park, which opened in 1991, was knows as Comiskey Park until it was renamed U.S. Cellular Field (a.k.a. "The Cell") in 1993. It was announced today that the ball park will get a new name starting November 1st.

Even being a die-hard Cubs fan, Comiskey Park/U.S. Cellular Field have created pleasant memories. My first Sox games were at Old Comiskey and I've attended several games at the new park, which has some great family friendly features and promotions. If you ever have a chance to attend a patio party at The Cell, it's a blast. Your group enjoys a buffet and beer and you have a chance to pregame onsite before the game.

Here's the details announced in a press release today:

Guaranteed Rate Field debuts on November 1

Chicago-based national mortgage lender Guaranteed Rate and the White Sox have signed a 13-year naming rights agreement for the team's home ballpark, which will be named Guaranteed Rate Field beginning November 1, 2016. "We are pleased to find, in Guaranteed Rate, a new naming rights partner founded in Chicago by Chicagoans, which shares our commitment to the city and to our fans," said Jerry Reinsdorf, chairman of the White Sox. The White Sox and Guaranteed Rate also have agreed on sponsorship elements associated with White Sox baseball, including various branding, promotional and hospitality benefits, along with joint marketing opportunities. Guaranteed Rate becomes the official mortgage and title company of the White Sox. "We are incredibly excited and honored to be part of the White Sox family," said Victor Ciardelli, president & CEO of Guaranteed Rate. "We look forward to many great years of White Sox baseball at Guaranteed Rate Field."