The White Sox vs Cubs rivalry, a cornerstone of Chicago baseball, takes center stage on May 16, 2025, as the Chicago Cubs host the Chicago White Sox for the City Series opener at Wrigley Field. Dubbed Rivalry Weekend by MLB, this White Sox vs Cubs clash promises high stakes, with the Cubs aiming to extend their recent dominance and the White Sox seeking redemption after a dismal 2024.
This article previews the White Sox vs Cubs series, highlighting key players, team dynamics, and the cultural significance of the Crosstown Classic, offering fans a deep dive into this iconic matchup.
Background: A Tale of Two Chicago
The White Sox vs Cubs rivalry, dating back to 1901, splits Chicago between the South Side’s gritty White Sox and the North Side’s beloved Cubs. The White Sox lead the all-time series 78-74, but the Cubs have won six of the last seven meetings, including a 2024 sweep, per MLB.com.
The White Sox, coming off a franchise-worst 121 losses in 2024, are rebuilding under new manager Will Venable, with a 14-30 record and a .214 batting average, tied for the majors’ worst, per Reuters. Their 4.04 team ERA, a leap from 4.67 last year, offers hope. The Cubs, managed by Craig Counsell, sit at 24-20, buoyed by a potent offense led by Kyle Tucker and Pete Crow-Armstrong, with 12-1 World Series odds, per ESPN.
Series Opener Preview: Pitching Duel at Wrigley
The White Sox vs Cubs series begins Friday at 2:20 p.m. ET, televised on Marquee Sports Network. The Cubs send rookie right-hander Cade Horton, who debuted with four innings of three-run ball against the Mets, to the mound, per Reuters.
Horton, the seventh overall pick in 2022, will have to contend with a White Sox lineup that is scoring the fewest runs in the AL (149). Shane Smith, a rookie right-hander who gave up just one run in six innings against the Marlins on May 10, is the White Sox’s response, according to the Chicago Tribune. The Cubs’ batters, who sit in the top 10 in terms of runs scored (204), may have competition from Smith’s 3.12 ERA in May.
According to Sporting News, one of the key matchups pits Smith’s sinker-heavy style against Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki, who is hitting 298 with eight home runs. According to the Chicago Tribune, Tim Elko, the White Sox’s designated hitter, might lead the offense after hitting a three-run homer against Miami on May 11 for the first time in his career.
The Cubs’ bullpen, led by Julian Merryweather’s 2.89 ERA, must maintain its edge after a velocity dip, while the White Sox’s relievers, with a 4.21 ERA, remain a weak link, per the Chicago Tribune.
Tactical Insights and Series Outlook
The White Sox vs Cubs series favors the Cubs, who’ve thrived at Wrigley, winning 14 of 22 home games, per ESPN. Their offense, averaging 4.6 runs per game, exploits the White Sox’s 22nd-ranked pitching staff.
However, the White Sox’s improved rotation, bolstered by young arms like Smith, could keep games close. The Cubs’ 1.65 WHIP from rookie Ben Brown, per ESPN, suggests vulnerabilities if Horton falters. Weather, with a 30% chance of rain on Friday, may impact strategy, per AccuWeather.
The Cubs are predicted by VegasInsider to continue their winning streak in the White Sox vs. Cubs series, which resumes on Saturday and Sunday at 1:20 p.m. ET. According to ESPN, a White Sox upset led by Elko or Luis Robert Jr., who is being considered for a trade, may indicate that their rebuild is making headway. The passion of the rivalry is reflected in posts on X, where @Cubs hypes the series as a “Wrigley showdown.”
Cultural Context: Pope Leo XIV’s Fandom
Adding a quirky twist, the White Sox vs Cubs buzz includes debate over Pope Leo XIV’s allegiance. The Chicago-born pontiff, a White Sox fan per his brother, sparked playful banter after the Cubs claimed him, per NBC News. The White Sox sent a jersey to the Vatican, cementing their claim, per CBS Sports, making this series a cultural talking point.
Why White Sox vs Cubs Matters
The White Sox vs Cubs series is more than a game—it’s Chicago’s heartbeat. With the Cubs chasing a playoff spot and the White Sox building for the future, this Rivalry Weekend at Wrigley blends tradition, competition, and civic pride, captivating fans across the Windy City.
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