The Chicago White Sox are gearing up for Game 110 of the season on Friday evening in Anaheim, California, with a chance to equal their total wins from the entire dismal 2024 season. Last year, the White Sox experienced a record-low finish of 41-121, the most losses in modern major league history, leaving them 51.5 games behind the first-place Cleveland Guardians in the American League Central.
Currently, Chicago holds a 40-69 record and will initiate a six-game road trip with a three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels. Significantly, the White Sox have been performing better since the All-Star break, posting an impressive 8-4 record, which included a sweep against the Pirates and series wins over the Rays and the Phillies. Their only setback during this stretch came from their crosstown rivals, the Cubs.
Notably, the team’s rebuilding effort appears to be making headway as they decided against trading 2023 All-Star outfielder Luis Robert Jr., a move many anticipated they would make by the trade deadline. Instead, the team traded starter Adrian Houser, who had been performing well with a 6-2 record and a 2.10 ERA, to Tampa Bay for infielder Curtis Mead. They also traded outfielder Austin Slater to the Yankees in exchange for pitching prospect Gage Ziehl.
Chicago’s general manager Chris Getz expressed enthusiasm about retaining Luis Robert, emphasizing the value he brings to the lineup. Manager Will Venable noted his team’s ability to focus amidst the distractions of trade discussions, especially after a significant 9-3 victory over the Phillies, which included homers from several top prospects. The young catcher/designated hitter Kyle Teel, among others, showcased the team’s promising talent during the game.
On the pitching side, Chicago has not officially named a starter for the series opener, but All-Star right-hander Shane Smith is expected to return from injury.
In contrast, the Los Angeles Angels have also retained their key players, including reliever Kenley Jansen and outfielder Taylor Ward, demonstrating their commitment to a playoff push as they trail only 4.5 games from the final wild-card spot. General manager Perry Minasian highlighted the competitiveness of the team, while perennial All-Star Mike Trout is closing in on a career milestone, needing just three more home runs to reach 400.
With both teams showcasing young talent and ambitious plans for the remainder of the season, fans can look forward to an exciting matchup as the White Sox face off against the Angels.
This matchup between the two teams reflects the unpredictability and excitement of this baseball season, with both clubs looking to make their mark as the race for the playoffs heats up.