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Struggling Cubs Match Up with MLB Bottom-Dwelling White Sox
The Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox open a two-game series at Wrigley Field in what is known as the Crosstown Classic. However, given both teams’ recent performances, a more fitting title might be the “Crosstown Not-So-Classic.” Both teams are grappling with significant struggles, making this matchup an interesting, albeit less prestigious, contest.
The Cubs’ Struggles
The Cubs enter this series having lost six straight series after a 5-2 defeat to Cincinnati. They have dropped four of their last five games and are 2-9 in their last 11 contests. Despite these challenges, the Cubs remain in third place in the National League Central, 7.5 games behind division leader Milwaukee and just half a game out of a wild-card spot.
The White Sox’s Woes
The White Sox are enduring a historic downturn, marked by an 11-game losing streak—their longest since 1956. They have lost 15 of their last 16 games and currently hold the worst record in Major League Baseball at 15-45. Their minus-138 run differential is significantly worse than the second-worst team, the Miami Marlins, who sit at minus-82.
Pitching Matchups
Chris Flexen’s Challenge Right-hander Chris Flexen (2-5, 5.50 ERA) will start for the White Sox. Flexen has struggled against the Cubs, holding a 7.56 ERA in six career games against them. His record at Wrigley Field is particularly poor, with an 8.74 ERA in five games.
Shota Imanaga’s Resilience The Cubs will counter with left-hander Shota Imanaga (5-1, 1.86 ERA). Imanaga, who signed a four-year contract with the Cubs in January after an impressive career in Japan, had a historic start to his MLB career, allowing two earned runs or less in his first nine starts. However, his streak ended in a recent game against Milwaukee, where he allowed seven runs over 4 1/3 innings.
Recent Performances
Imanaga had entered his last game with a league-leading 0.84 ERA and 58 strikeouts. Despite the setback, Cubs manager Craig Counsell remains optimistic about Imanaga’s performance. “He just wasn’t as sharp as we’ve seen in the past,” Counsell noted. “They hit his mistakes and got the ball in the air good. So it just wasn’t a great night for Shota.”
Key Players and Injuries
The White Sox have been plagued by injuries, but there is hope that All-Star center fielder Luis Robert Jr. (right hip flexor) could return for the series. His return could provide a much-needed boost to the White Sox’s struggling lineup, which ranks last in MLB in batting average (.214), runs scored (172), and home runs (43).
Rivalry and Atmosphere
Despite the poor performances of both teams, the rivalry between the Cubs and White Sox adds an exciting element to the series. White Sox manager Pedro Grifol expects Wrigley Field to be buzzing. “There’s not much love there, even though it’s the same city,” Grifol said. “But it’s a big-time rivalry. It’s fun. It’s a good playoff atmosphere in the middle of the season.”
Conclusion
This year’s Crosstown Classic may not feature teams at their peak, but the rivalry and the potential for redemption make it a must-watch. With both teams desperate for a win, this series offers a unique opportunity to turn their fortunes around.
