Bryan Armetta offers up a preview, prediction and pick for Saturday’s game between the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox.
The Crosstown Classic is underway in the Windy City. On Friday, it was the cellar dwelling White Sox who earned an upset 12-5 win. A World Series contending Cubs squad will hope to even the score with a victory of their own tonight. Which of these two rivals will claim bragging rights in Game Two? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Saturday’s matchup between the Cubs and the White Sox.
The Cubs are favorites (-194) over the White Sox, with the over/under set at nine runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s contest.
Cubs vs. White Sox prediction, preview
On paper, this is a battle between David and Goliath. The White Sox, 38-66, are the American League’s worst squad. In comparison, the 60-43 Cubs are right near the top of the National League. However, it was the underdog that came out swinging on Friday. The South Siders shelled All-Star Shota Imanaga, tallying 12 hits and seven runs through just three innings. It’s yet another terrific performance from this White Sox offense. The Black and White bats have notched 106 runs this month, the fourth-best mark in baseball during that time.
To keep the Sox at bay, it’ll be Cade Horton on the mound. The rookie owns a 4.04 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 47 strikeouts through his first 12 outings with the Cubs. While more whiffs would be nice, the 23-year-old has displayed impressive command (3.0 BB/9). It’s been a mixed bag for Horton recently. Over his last two starts at home, he’s tossed a combined 13.2 scoreless innings. During the righty’s last two road starts, he’s coughed up 11 total runs. Unfortunately for the Cubbies, tonight’s matchup takes place on the other side of town at Rate Field.
For the White Sox, Aaron Civale will take the hill. It’s been a chaotic season for the right-hander, traded to Chicago in June. Since joining his new team, the 30-year-old has been mediocre (4.66 ERA). Still, there’s a level of consistency to the veteran; he’s surrendered more than four runs in just three of his 12 appearances. During four career starts vs. the Cubs, Civale owns a sparkling 1.66 ERA. Granted, none of those performances occurred before 2024, but it’s still a positive sign for the home team. Several prominent Cubs hitters, including Dansby Swanson (0-for-5) and Ian Happ (1-for-5), have struggled against Civale.
Cubs vs. White Sox pick, best bet
Best Bet: White Sox +1.5 (-105)
As good as the White Sox have been at the plate, I’m not brave enough to predict a second straight win. Still, the South Siders are hitting well enough to earn some benefit of the doubt. In addition, Civale’s consistently average pitching should ensure that this one doesn’t get out of hand. Don’t be shocked if the underdogs keep things close on Saturday night.