The Chicago Cubs are set to host the Chicago White Sox on Friday afternoon at Wrigley Field for the opening game of the highly anticipated Crosstown Classic series. This matchup marks the first meeting of the season between these two Chicago rivals.
Currently, the Cubs hold a record of 25-19, including 12 wins and 10 losses in home games. Their batting lineup features an on-base percentage of .327, which ranks seventh in the National League. Key performers include Seiya Suzuki, who has notched seven doubles, two triples, and 11 home runs, while Dansby Swanson has been impressive with a batting average of .375 over the last ten games, recording 12 hits, including two doubles and two home runs.
In contrast, the White Sox find themselves struggling with a 14-30 record, and their road performance has been particularly concerning at just 5-18. They also face challenges when it comes to their pitching; the team has lost 23 games when they have given up a home run. Standout players for the White Sox include Miguel Vargas, who has contributed nine doubles and three home runs, and Edgar Quero, who has a batting average of .278 over the past ten games.
The pitchers slated to take the mound are Shane Smith for the White Sox, who has a solid 2.08 ERA and 38 strikeouts, and Cade Horton for the Cubs, who is coming off a 1-0 record despite a higher ERA of 6.75.
In their last ten games, both teams are even at 4-6, but each is struggling offensively, with the Cubs hitting just .193 and the White Sox at .209. Injuries have impacted both squads significantly, with several key players currently on the injured list.
Despite the challenges facing both teams, the Crosstown Classic offers an opportunity for either club to gain momentum and pride in this city showdown. Fans will be eager to see if the Cubs can capitalize on their home advantage or if the White Sox will turn their fortunes around in this exciting series.