Cubs vs White Sox Series Recap

The annual Crosstown Series had a change of format this year. As part of the revamped scheduling with both the American League and National League featuring an even number of 15 teams, the implementation of inter league games throughout the season actually cost these two city rivals a pair of games. Gone are the days of a three game series on each side of town. Instead there is the pseudo four game series split as a home and home, with two games at U.S. Cellular and a pair at Wrigley.

May 29, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs second baseman Darwin Barney (15) forces out Chicago White Sox shortstop Alexei Ramirez (10) during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The Good

In short? A sweep of the three games against the Sox that could have easily been four had game two not been rained out. The Cubs pounded out 31 hits in three games and dumped 24 runs on the South Siders. The offense brought out their big whooping sticks, as they hit seven home runs. Of those long balls, highlights included Julio Borbon’s first of the season, a three homer day by Dioner Navarro, and a grand slam by pitcher Travis Wood.

The Better

Speaking of pitchers, the starting rotation continued their run of excellence too. Ace Jeff Samardzija set the tone for the series with a complete game shut out in game one on the South Side. Scott Feldman continued to cement his July trade value with another quality start for his fifth win of the season, and Wood matched Feldman with a quality start and fifth win on top of his offensive contribution.

Despite a lack of hype to the series compared to years past, as evidenced by a lack of a sponsor for the silly Crosstown Cup, the Cubs certainly enjoyed the all Chicago match up. The North Siders saw their win streak hit four and comfortably won all three games. As an added bonus, the losses have put the White Sox in position in position for a bit of a tailspin after finally getting to .500 just ahead of the series.