Judge dismisses lawsuit by former White Sox trainer

CHICAGO - An Illinois judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed against the Chicago White Sox by a former athletic trainer who alleged he was fired by the team because of his sexual orientation, age and disability.

The three remaining claims from Brian Ball’s lawsuit against the White Sox, originally filed in Cook County almost a year ago, were dismissed with prejudice on Wednesday, according to the team. Ball’s claims against general manager Rick Hahn and two of his five claims against the team were voluntarily dismissed in February.

Ball had alleged the actions of Hahn and the club caused him "significant emotional and monetary damages, as well as damage to his reputation and name." The lawsuit was seeking unspecified damages.

A message was left Thursday seeking comment from Ball’s law firm.

Ball was hired by Chicago in September 2000 to serve as an assistant trainer alongside head trainer Herm Schneider. Ball was on the athletic training staff when the team won the World Series in 2005.

Ball was told by Hahn on Oct. 26, 2020, that he had been dismissed, according to the lawsuit.