The anticipation builds as the Chicago White Sox get ready to face the Chicago Cubs in the Crosstown Classic. Rivalry runs deep between these two teams. Both sides show mixed performances this season. Fans and experts expect an exciting three-game series at Wrigley Field.
Current Season Overview
By late May 2025, the Cubs hold a 25-19 record while the White Sox sit at 14-30. This game marks their first meeting this season. Last year, the Cubs won all four matchups with the White Sox. Both teams now seek to beat the other and gain control.
Recent Performances
The White Sox show a spark after winning three out of four recent games. Though they lost to the Cincinnati Reds before this series, they have done well when they score four or more runs. This pattern brings hope to their fans.
The Cubs had their own struggles. They won a home series against the Miami Marlins but then lost 3-1. They missed key chances in that contest and aim to fix these errors soon.
Pitching Matchup: Understanding the Starters
In the opening game, two pitchers start a head-to-head duel.
• Shane Smith (White Sox):
Smith stands out with a 2.08 ERA over eight games. This left-hander shows strong control. He pitched six shutout innings in his last start, giving his team a needed spark.
• Cade Horton (Cubs):
Horton makes his first major league start. He was a top draft pick in 2022. Though he had a tough outing as a reliever with a 6.75 ERA, his minor league numbers promise better days ahead. The Cubs now look for a jump in his performance at Wrigley.
Betting Insights and Predictions
The odds from BetMGM Sportsbook favor the Cubs at -225 on the moneyline. The White Sox come in at +185. The spread shows the Cubs ahead by 1.5 runs.
• Betting on the White Sox (+185) may bring high rewards when they score enough runs. Their record improves when they hit four or more times.
• The run line for the Cubs (-1.5) expects a win by two or more runs. Yet the White Sox might keep the score close and cover this mark.
The over/under for total runs is at 11.5. In recent games, both teams have trended towards fewer runs. The White Sox have not gone past 11 runs in 17 matches, with tight pitching often leading to close scores.
Expert Prediction
Current form and pitching talent give hope to the White Sox. A likely score in the opener is 5-3 in their favor. This win would come when they put up at least four runs.
Fans watch as the two teams fight on the field. They show clear signs of determination as the season moves forward. The pitching duel and scoring efforts will keep everyone engaged in this long-standing rivalry.
