Adam LaRoche Retired Because Chicago White Sox Didn't Want His Son Around Team As Much Anymore

When news broke that Chicago White Sox slugger Adam LaRoche was abruptly retiring from MLB on Monday, many were puzzled about his reasoning.

Sure, his 2015 campaign didn’t go as planned and he’s been dealing with a lingering back issue. However, leaving $13 million on the table isn’t something the average baseball aficionado can fathom.

LaRoche, 36, cited ‘personal reasons’ for his decision. Now, just a day later, new details from the situation have come to light.

According to reports, LaRoche, who has been known to have his son frequent team facilities throughout his career, was allegedly asked by Chicago’s executive vice president, Kenny Williams, to bring his (now 14-year-old) son around much less in 2016.

Sources: LaRoche chose to retire after #WhiteSox prez Ken Williams told him that he no longer could bring 14-year-old son into clubhouse.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) March 16, 2016

This story began trending almost instantly, and Williams subsequently released a statement via Ken Rosenthal.

“There has been no policy change with regards to allowance of kids in the clubhouse, on the field, the back fields during spring training. This young man that we’re talking about, Drake, everyone loves this young man. In no way do I want this to be about him.”

“I asked Adam, said, ‘Listen, our focus, our interest, our desire this year is to make sure we give ourselves every opportunity to focus on a daily basis on getting better. All I’m asking you to do with regard to bringing your kid to the ballpark is dial it back.’”

“I don’t think he should be here 100 percent of the time – and he has been here 100 percent, every day, in the clubhouse. I said that I don’t even think he should be here 50 percent of the time. Figure it out, somewhere in between.”

“We all think his kid is a great young man. I just felt it should not be every day, that’s all. You tell me, where in this country can you bring your child to work every day?”

A number of current and former MLB players have taken to Twitter to voice their support of LaRoche’s decision.

Brought my son to the clubhouse everyday.It’s was the only place where he could do whatever he wantedHe loved every second #good4Upaparoche

— F.P. Santangelo (@FightinHydrant) March 16, 2016

Hey @BMcCarthy32 did the White Sox ask you to take down the picture of your newborn yet?

— Brett Anderson (@BrettAnderson35) March 16, 2016

Good for you Roche! Nothing like father and son in the clubhouse..It’s a FAMILY game #FamilyFirst

— Bryce Harper (@Bharper3407) March 16, 2016

LaRoche is expected to focus his attention on his hunting endeavors going forward.

Adam LaRoche retired because the White Sox didn’t want his kid in the clubhouse every day: https://t.co/joWHeNfFD6 pic.twitter.com/tV3ek4MQI9

— Deadspin (@Deadspin) March 16, 2016

While what LaRoche did was admirable, it also doesn’t appear as if Williams’ request was outrageous by any means. Unfortunately, middle ground simply couldn’t be found.