The Tampa Bay Rays are set to host the Chicago White Sox for a three-game series scheduled to begin on July 21st in Tampa. The Rays have recently broken their streak of consecutive series losses by winning two out of three games against the Baltimore Orioles. They currently hold a record of 52-48, placing them 6.5 games behind the Toronto Blue Jays and 1.5 games out of the third Wild Card spot in the American League.
On the other hand, the White Sox are coming off a successful series where they swept the Pittsburgh Pirates, highlighting a positive momentum shift as they head into this matchup.
In historical context, some notable players by career bWAR who have made an impact for both teams include Manny Ramirez, James Shields, and Jose Canseco. The Rays have had standout performances against the Orioles, particularly by Mallex Smith, who boasts an impressive .579 batting average over 25 plate appearances.
The two teams have a history of transactions, with their first historical trade occurring in 2000 when the Rays sent Tony Graffanino to the White Sox for pitcher Tanyon Sturtze. More recently, on May 27, 2025, the Rays traded Dru Baker to the White Sox in exchange for Matt Thaiss.
Game details are as follows:
– Game One: Monday, July 21st, 7:35 PM EDT – RHP Shane Baz vs. RHP Sean Burke
– Game Two: Tuesday, July 22nd, 7:35 PM EDT – RHP Drew Rasmussen vs. TBD
– Game Three: Wednesday, July 23rd, 7:35 PM EDT – RHP Taj Bradley vs. RHP Jonathan Cannon
With both teams looking to build on their recent performances, this series could have significant implications for their postseason hopes. Fans are encouraged to tune in for this exciting matchup, as the Rays aim to continue their resurgence while the White Sox look to further establish their winning streak.