To maintain their status as a contender for the postseason, the Chicago Cubs must capitalize on their favorable schedule. This is a crucial time for the team, as they need to harness momentum and secure wins against their opponents. Every game counts, and the Cubs are well aware that making the most of every opportunity is essential for their playoff aspirations.
This means it is crucial for them to secure a victory in the upcoming game against the struggling White Sox during their home stand on Wednesday evening. The Cubs face the challenge of turning around their recent performance and seizing this opportunity to gain valuable momentum in the race for the playoffs.
Currently, the Cubs are still in contention for both the National League Central title and a wildcard spot. However, after a mixed 3-3 road trip that saw them lose two out of three games to the struggling New York Mets, the Cubs suffered a disappointing 5-3 defeat to the White Sox, who are currently 24 games below .500 and were on a three-game losing streak leading into that match. This loss was a significant setback for the Cubs as they look to solidify their postseason position.
The defeat on Tuesday revealed missed opportunities for the Cubs, who now prepare to face the Kansas City Royals, currently in last place in the American League Central, for a three-game series. Following this, the Cubs will be traveling to Detroit and Pittsburgh—teams that also have records significantly under .500. It is imperative for the Cubs to take advantage of these matchups to elevate their standings and boost their confidence.
“We’ve just got to focus on moving forward to (Wednesday),” Cubs starter Kyle Hendricks stated. “We’ve got to win this game on Wednesday.” The team understands the importance of each game as they strive for a successful outcome amidst the pressures of the postseason race.
Cubs All-Star pitcher Marcus Stroman was expected to return from a brief stint on the injured list due to hip inflammation, starting on Wednesday. However, he is now dealing with a rib issue, which has created uncertainty about his availability. Instead, Cubs manager David Ross indicated that it is “more than likely” that Javier Assad (2-2, 3.12 ERA) will take the mound for a third consecutive start.
The young right-hander has emerged as a reliable option in the Cubs bullpen and is currently 1-0 in his last two starts with Stroman sidelined. Assad demonstrated his potential by allowing just one run, four hits, and a walk over a career-high seven innings during Friday’s 6-2 victory against Toronto, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
“I’m making the most of every opportunity, whether it is as a starter or a reliever,” Assad expressed. “While I don’t know what the future holds for me, I’m definitely taking full advantage of this chance.” His determination and focus are essential as he navigates this critical moment in his career.
In his previous appearance against the White Sox on July 26, Assad was impressive, not allowing a baserunner over 1 2/3 scoreless innings of relief. He has yet to face All-Star Luis Robert Jr., who made headlines by hitting a tie-breaking solo homer in the seventh inning on Tuesday, adding pressure on the Cubs pitching staff.
With 32 homers this season, Robert boasts an impressive .383 batting average, along with five homers and 11 RBIs in just 12 career games against the Cubs. His performance highlights the importance of the Cubs pitching strategies as they aim to contain his offensive impact.
In a related note, scheduled White Sox starter Mike Clevinger (5-5, 3.55 ERA) has been performing well since returning from the injured list due to an arm issue on July 29. Clevinger is 2-1 with a 2.25 ERA during this stretch and pitched six innings last Wednesday in a 9-2 victory against the New York Yankees, during which he allowed one run, three hits, and three walks while striking out six batters.
Despite the White Sox‘s overall challenging season, Clevinger remains positive about his performance and the team’s future. “It’s been a lot of fun, a lot of fun to show up here,” he reflected. “I’m not focused on tomorrow or the day after, or what happened two days ago, just on the task at hand.”
Last season, while pitching for San Diego, Clevinger allowed two earned runs and six hits against the Cubs, striking out six batters over 4 1/3 innings. His experience and skill will be a factor to watch as the White Sox aim to turn their season around.
It remains uncertain whether White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson will be available for the game after being injured prior to Tuesday’s match due to a stiff neck. His absence could significantly impact the White Sox lineup as they face the Cubs.
—Field Level Media
