CHICAGO — The White Sox will maintain their practice of not announcing decisions on their potential free agents with team options until after the World Series. But one anticipated decision apparently has been made.

It's believed the Sox won't include Ken Griffey in their off-season plans, although Griffey could be considered later in a lesser role, especially if he recovers from left knee surgery performed Oct. 14.

After Tampa Bay eliminated the Sox on Oct. 6, Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf thanked Griffey for his contributions and professionalism to the team.

But SI.com, citing "people familiar with" the White Sox's thinking, said the Sox will allow Griffey to explore free agency.

That means the Sox and Cincinnati will split the $4 million buyout that they agreed upon as part of the July 31 deal that sent Griffey from Cincinnati in exchange for pitcher Nick Masset and second baseman Danny Richar. The Sox have a $16.5 million option for 2009 that they haven't been expected to pick up.

Efforts to reach Griffey's agent, Brian Goldberg, were unsuccessful, and the Sox will announce their intentions on Griffey and backup catcher Toby Hall after the Series.

The Sox have a $2.25 million option on Hall, who has reiterated a desire to return. Hall's contract includes a $150,000 buyout.

The Sox's other free agents—shortstop Orlando Cabrera, third baseman Joe Crede, infielder Juan Uribe and left-hander Horacio Ramirez—can file for free agency during a 15-day window after the Series.