The upcoming Crosstown Classic between the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox is set to begin this weekend, with both teams entering the series on May 15 holding a level of excitement not seen in years.
The matchup matters to fans across Chicago, as both sides have reasons for optimism. The Cubs, coming off a playoff appearance last year, are currently leading the National League Central and have maintained strong momentum despite injuries. According to Baseball Reference, their chances of making the postseason stand at 94.5 percent.
The Cubs have also won 15 consecutive games at Wrigley Field, which players say has created an energized atmosphere. Meanwhile, expectations for the White Sox were lower after several challenging seasons that included three straight years with over 100 losses and a record-setting 121 losses in 2024. However, this season has seen them reach a .500 record for the first time this late since finishing even in 2022.
Columnist Brian O’Neill wrote that “Being normal when you’ve been intensely abnormal is a good feeling,” describing how fans are responding to what he calls a “normal” baseball team after years of struggles. The team’s resurgence has been led by Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami—currently tied for third in home runs—and supported by one of Major League Baseball’s lowest payrolls.
For the Cubs, Japanese pitcher Shota Imanaga’s return has helped stabilize their rotation following injuries last season. Ian Happ is having a career year alongside contributions from other players throughout their lineup.
All three games will be broadcast locally on WCIU—a notable change given recent shifts toward subscription-based sports networks—making it easier for more fans across Chicago to watch. Warm weather is expected during the series weekend.
Mayor Brandon Johnson added some levity ahead of his visit with Pope Leo XIV later this month by joking about bringing him a Cubs hat and said: “And then, of course, we’re going to pray for potentially a Cubs-White Sox World Series.”
With one team meeting high expectations and another offering hope after difficult seasons, many see this year’s Crosstown Classic as an opportunity for renewed excitement among baseball fans throughout Chicago.
