The first Crosstown Classic series of the season kicks off this weekend as the Chicago Cubs battle the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field. Running from May 15 to May 17, the highly anticipated three-game intracity rivalry features two hot teams colliding under unique circumstances.

The Chicago Cubs arrive at the South Side riding high near the top of the National League Central with a dominant 28–16 record. Their offense has been explosive, highlighted by explosive multi-run bursts from core bats like Nico Hoerner and Ian Happ. New addition Alex Bregman anchors a dangerous lineup built to contend deep into October.

However, the major surprise of this matchup is the resurgence of the Chicago White Sox. After a dismal 6–13 start to the campaign, the South Siders have rallied furiously with a 15–8 run. Following a dynamic five-game winning streak, they have climbed back to an even 22–21 record, marking the first time they have reached .500 this late in a season since 2022. Manager Will Venable has unified the locker room, leaning heavily on team-first baseball and unexpected power surges from rising outfielders like Tristan Peters.

The action begins Friday at 6:40 p.m. CT, followed by a sold-out Saturday night matchup at 6:10 p.m. CT, and concludes with a Sunday matinee at 1:10 p.m. CT. Fans traveling to the stadium are encouraged to utilize the CTA Red Line or the Green Line. Local broadcast options include the Marquee Sports Network and various regional platforms. With both franchises entering the weekend in peak form, Chicago baseball fans are locked in for an unmissable, high-stakes battle for city bragging rights.

The starting pitcher matchups for this weekend’s Crosstown Classic at Rate Field feature a highly competitive mix of steady veterans and surging young arms.

Date	Chicago Cubs Starter	Chicago White Sox Starter
Friday, May 15 (6:40 PM CT)	Edward Cabrera (RHP, 3-1, 3.88 ERA)	Sean Burke (RHP, 2-3, 3.68 ERA)
Saturday, May 16 (6:10 PM CT)	Jameson Taillon (RHP, 2-2, 3.94 ERA)	Davis Martin (RHP, 5-1, 1.62 ERA)
Sunday, May 17 (1:10 PM CT)	Colin Rea (RHP, 4-2, 4.68 ERA)	Erick Fedde (RHP, 0-4, 3.77 ERA)

Game 1: Edward Cabrera vs. Sean Burke 

The series opener pairs two right-handers looking to set a dominant tone. Edward Cabrera leads the Cubs with 43 strikeouts on the season, leaning heavily on his high-velocity stuff to overpower hitters. He will be countered by the White Sox’ Sean Burke, who boasts a highly efficient 1.09 WHIP and has shown excellent control over 44.0 innings pitched this year. 

Game 2: Jameson Taillon vs. Davis Martin

Saturday night presents the marquee pitching duel of the weekend. Veteran Jameson Taillon brings his steady, calculated presence to the mound for North Chigaco. He faces a monumental challenge in White Sox ace Davis Martin, who is putting together a phenomenal campaign. Martin enters the matchup leading his squad in wins (5) and strikeouts (52), while carrying a spectacular, team-best 1.62 ERA. 

Game 3: Colin Rea vs. Erick Fedde

The Sunday matinee features a battle of experienced arms trying to log deep innings. Colin Rea takes the bump for the Cubs as one of their most reliable decision-makers, leading the team with 4 wins. He squares off against Erick Fedde, who has suffered from poor run support resulting in an 0-4 record, but remains a dangerous threat due to his solid 1.16 WHIP and a respectable 3.77 ERA.

• Game 1 Recap
• Game 2 Recap
• Game 3 Recap