Spring training games aren’t supposed to matter.
But when the opponent is the Cubs? It feels just a little different.
The White Sox (6-4) take on the Cubs (4-5) this afternoon in another Cactus League installment of the crosstown rivalry, hoping to recreate the fun from their spring opener — when they handled That Other Team in Town and gave Sox fans an early dose of satisfaction.
Do Players Care as Much as Fans?
It’s a fair question.
For roster hopefuls and fringe guys battling for a job, the opponent probably isn’t the priority. They’re thinking about pitch shapes, exit velocity, making clean reads in the outfield — not neighborhood bragging rights.
For established players trying to hold onto roles? Same deal. Health and timing come first.
But rivalries seep in.
Even in March.
There’s a little extra edge when the other dugout wears blue. Maybe not full regular-season intensity — but enough to notice. And yes, it probably felt good in that first meeting.
Pitching Matchup
Anthony Kay (Sox)
The lefty is expected to be part of the rotation once the games count. In his first spring outing against Seattle, Kay allowed one run over two innings. The damage stemmed from control issues — two walks that eventually came around.
Today’s focus:
- Pound the zone early
- Limit free passes
- Show that his Japan success translates consistently
With a projected regular-season role, these innings are about sharpening execution rather than survival.
Shota Imanaga (Cubs)
Imanaga tossed two scoreless innings in his first appearance, though he surrendered three hits. The Cubs will likely stretch him out gradually as part of their regular-season rotation plan.
It’s a legitimate early test for a Sox lineup back to full strength after Friday’s split-squad action.
Lineups & Conditions
Both sides are running out several presumed regular-season contributors, though not every everyday starter is in the mix.
First pitch: 2:05 p.m. CT
Temperature: North of 90° again — welcome to Arizona in March.
How to Watch (or Listen Like It’s 1935)
- TV: Cubs’ Marquee Network
- Radio: ESPN 1000
Meanwhile, the Sox broadcast situation remains… creatively frustrating. So if you don’t have Marquee, dust off the imaginary tabletop radio, twist the dial, and enjoy a little vintage baseball theater.
Does it count in the standings?
No.
Will it count in the group chat?
Absolutely.
Let’s see if the Sox can make it two-for-two against the North Siders this spring.
Leave a Reply