The Chicago White Sox have had a record-breaking start to the season, but unfortunately, it’s a record they’d rather forget. With a 2-12 record, they’ve equaled their worst 14-game start ever. They’re aiming to reverse their fortunes as they conclude their three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday afternoon.
Offensively, the White Sox have struggled significantly in the early part of the season, particularly evident in the first two games of this series where they managed only one run and six hits combined.
After a tough 11-1 loss on Friday, the White Sox faced another setback with a 5-0 shutout on Saturday, marking their fifth shutout of the season.
With 148 games still ahead, manager Pedro Grifol remains optimistic about the team’s ability to bounce back throughout the season.
“You’ve got to move on from these games,” Grifol commented. “After a good rest, we’ll come back strong on Sunday to try and take the series and prepare for Kansas City.”
Michael Soroka (0-1, 6.14 ERA) will aim to help the White Sox salvage the series in his fourth start of the season on Sunday. In his last game, he had a no-decision against the Cleveland Guardians, allowing four runs on four hits over 3 2/3 innings in a 7-5 victory for the White Sox.
Soroka has only faced the Reds once before in his career, securing a win in 2019 with the Atlanta Braves, where he gave up one run on five hits over 5 2/3 innings.
Cincinnati’s Graham Ashcraft (1-1, 5.40 ERA) is set to start for the Reds. In his two starts this season, Ashcraft recorded a win against the Milwaukee Brewers, conceding six runs (five earned) on nine hits over 5 2/3 innings. The Reds provided strong run support, scoring eight runs in the first four innings.
Ashcraft’s only previous start against the White Sox didn’t go well for him, as he surrendered eight runs and six hits in just 1 2/3 innings last May, resulting in a loss.
The Reds have been performing well lately, winning three of their last five games, and shortstop Elly De La Cruz has been instrumental in their success.
Despite a hitless game on Saturday, De La Cruz had an impressive four-game hitting streak where he batted .533 (8-for-15) with four home runs, seven RBIs, and eight runs scored. He’s been consistent throughout the season, recording hits in 12 of the 14 games played so far.
Cincinnati manager David Bell praised De La Cruz’s contributions both offensively and defensively, expressing confidence in his continued improvement. “We’re pleased with Elly’s performance in all aspects of the game,” Bell remarked. “He’s progressing well, and we’re ensuring he stays on track.”
On the White Sox side, designated hitter Gavin Sheets has been the standout player, maintaining a .290 batting average as of Saturday. He was the only starter hitting above .219 in the lineup for that game, and he’ll look to continue his solid performance in Sunday’s game.
