Chicago White Sox staff recall evacuation from New York following September 11 attacks

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 12, 2026, 1:14 AM

Last updated Sep 12, 2026

Chicago White Sox staff recall evacuation from New York following September 11 attacks
Summary

The Chicago White Sox arrived in New York for a scheduled series against the Yankees on September 11, 2001, only to witness the attacks from their hotel near Ground Zero. Ed Cassen, a member of the team staff, contacted Kenny Williams to prioritize the team's immediate evacuation from the city. After nearly 12 hours of coordination with local authorities, the team secured buses on September 12 to exit Manhattan. During the transit, they assisted emergency workers and nurses who required transportation off the island. The team eventually returned to Chicago, where they resumed play one week later. Players and staff members noted that the return to the field served as a necessary step toward restoring normalcy for the public.

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Status Watch
  • The Chicago White Sox arrived in New York City shortly after midnight on September 11, 2001.
  • Ed Cassen coordinated the team's departure with authorities after the attacks began.
  • The team left Manhattan on September 12, 2001, carrying emergency workers and nurses to New Jersey.
  • The Chicago White Sox resumed their schedule by hosting the Yankees one week after the attacks.
Latest Updates
  • 1:14 AMYahoo SportsChicago White Sox recall harrowing hours in New York on Sept. 11 before returning to baseball
What they're saying
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In the early morning hours of Sept. 11, 2001, the Chicago White Sox landed in New York and headed to their hotel, preparing to face the Yankees later that night. Players and staff say the day quickly shifted from routine travel to an experience they will never forget.

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