White Sox manager Tony La Russa steps down due to heart issue

Tony La Russa stepped down as manager of the Chicago White Sox on Monday because of a pair of health issues, ending a disappointing two-year run in the same spot where the Hall of Famer got his first job as a big league skipper.

La Russa, a three-time World Series champion who turns 78 on Tuesday, missed the final 34 games with the underachieving White Sox. He left the team on Aug. 30 because of problems with a pacemaker that was implanted in February.

While La Russa was away from the team, he got checked for a different medical issue that was previously diagnosed during an annual exam. That second health problem led to his departure from the team.

Chicago began the season with World Series aspirations but was plagued by injuries and inconsistent play. It improved to 80-80 with a 3-2 victory over Minnesota on Monday night.

Speaking in front of much of the organization, including his players, La Russa shouldered the blame for what happened this year.

"I understand the ultimate responsibility for each minus this season belongs to the manager," he said. "That's accurate, because there's always something else you could do.

"I was hired to provide positive, difference-making leadership and support. Our record this year is proof I did not do my job."

Bench coach Miguel Cairo took over after La Russa stepped away. The White Sox showed a spark right after the change, winning 10 of 14. But they dropped eight straight in late September, dashing their playoff hopes.

General manager Rick Hahn said Cairo will get an interview for the full-time job, but indicated a preference for someone outside the organization.

"I think we are going to use this opportunity to get different perspectives," Hahn said.

La Russa, who is close friends