Week of September 20-26, 2021

Three-Game Series at Detroit Tigers

Tigers win series 2-1 (including 9/27 makeup)

Monday, September 20, 2021 at 5:40 pm CDT
Comerica Park
Carlos Rodón, LHP vs.
Tigers / Matt Manning, RHP

L, 4-3, 85-65 (.567), L1 | LP: Craig Kimbrel (4-5, 2.26) | Game 150

DEFENSE: Carlos Rodón gives up 3 R (2 ER) on 2 H (2 BB, 6 SO) in 3.0 IP. José Ruiz allows 1 H and strikes out 2 (0 BB) in the 4th and 5th. Garrett Crochet goes 1-2-3 (1 SO) in the 6th, as does Ryan Burr (2 SO) in the 7th. In the 8th, Craig Kimbrel goes FO, K, HBP (steals 2B), then gives up the winning run on an RBI 1B by Harold Castro that scores Robbie Grossman from 2B. Kimbrel throws a FO to end the inning. OFFENSE: Tigers starter Matt Manning gives up the 3 R/ER on 4 H (3 BB, 2 SO) in 5.0 IP. The bullpen allows just 1 hit and strikes out 5. In the 3rd, with bases loaded, Brian Goodwin (walked) scores as Yoán Moncada reaches on a FC, Yasmani Grandal sac fly scores Tim Anderson (singled), and Eloy Jiménez RBI 2B brings in Moncada. Tigers closer Alex Lange retires the bottom third of the lineup for his first MLB save. Miguel Cabrera records his 1,800th career RBI on a sac fly in the 3rd that ties the game at 3. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

September 21—Adam Engel activated from IL

Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 5:40 pm CDT – moved up to 12:10 pm CDT, due to expected inclement weather
Comerica Park
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Tigers / Tyler Alexander, LHP

L, 5-3, 85-66 (.563), L2 | LP: Jace Fry (0-1, 10.80) | Game 151

Due to some outstanding fielding on both sides, the Tigers knock 16 hits, stranding 10, and the White Sox hit 12, stranding 13. Each pitching staff throws just one 1-2-3 inning. DEFENSE: Dallas Keuchel gives up 11 H this time, but limits the damage to 2 R/ER (1 BB, 2 SO) in 5.0 IP. Jace Fry takes the mound in the 6th, going 1B, FC, 5-4-3 DP, then gives up the game in the 7th—1B, 1B, 5-4-3 DP, RBI 1B, [SB on WP] BB. On this 28th birthday, Aaron Bummer steps in. He issues a [double steal] BB, then gives up the two inherited runs on a 2-RBI 1B that results in the third out at 3B, on the throw from first. Liam Hendriks goes 1-2-3 (2 SO–K) in the 8th. OFFENSE: Luis Robert 2-RBI 1B brings in Cesar Hernández (singled) and Tim Anderson (doubled), in the 3rd. Tim Anderson RBI 1B scores Adam Engel (doubled) in the 8th. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at 12:10 pm CDT – Rained Out
Comerica Park
Reynaldo López, RHP vs.
Tigers / Casey Mize, RHP

Postponed due to rain. Rescheduled for September 23 at 12:10 pm CDT.

Five-Game Series at Cleveland Indians (including 6/10 makeup)

White Sox win series 3-2

September 23—Andrew Vaughn activated from IL

Thursday, September 23, 2021 at 12:10 pm CDT
Progressive Field – makeup of June 10 (7 innings)
Reynaldo López, RHP vs.
Indians / Aaron Civale, RHP

W, 7-2, 86-66 (.567), W1 | WP: Aaron Bummer (4-5, 3.78) | Game 152

Contestants representing both teams stage a mini home run derby in Cleveland. DEFENSE: Reynaldo López gives up 2 R/ER on 4 H (0 BB, 4 SO) on 3⅓ IP. Garret Crochet finishes off the 4th with a 1B and a 6-4-3 DP. Aaron Bummer retires 3 in order (1 SO) in the 5th, for the win. Craig Kimbrel walks 2 and retires 3 (0 SO) in the 6th. Liam Hendriks closes with FO, 1B, GO, [WP–runner steals 3B] SO. OFFENSE: Lead-off man Tim Anderson sets the tone with a solo HR (15) off the 3rd pitch of the game. The Sox pull off a major rally in the 2ndLuis Robert (9) and Eloy Jiménez (9) slam back-to-back solo HRs, Tim Anderson 3-run HR (16) brings home Leury García (singled) and César Hernández (singled). Finally, Luis Robert RBI 1B scores Yoán Moncada (walked, advanced to 2B on José Abreu BB). After that, the bats are pretty quiet. But it’s more than enough for a win and the central division title. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

White Sox Clinch AL Central

2021-09-23 White Sox Clinch AL Central Title
Chicago White Sox

September 23—With today’s game 1 win, the White Sox clinch the American League Central Division title.

Thursday, September 23, 2021 at 5:10 pm CDT
Progressive Field – (7-inning game)
Michael Kopech, RHP vs.
Indians / Zach Plesac, RHP

L, 5-3, 86-67 (.562), L1 | LP: José Ruiz (1-3, 3.14) | Game 153

Game highlights on mlb.com

Friday, September 24, 2021 at 6:10 pm CDT
Progressive Field
Dylan Cease, RHP vs.
Indians / Not Justin, RHP

W, 1-0, 87-67 (.565), W1 | WP: Dylan Cease (13-7, 3.95) | S: Liam Hendriks (35) | Game 154

DEFENSE: In what turns out to be a suspenseful pitching duel, Dylan Cease pitches brilliantly, striking out 9 (3 H, 0 R, 0 BB) in 5⅓ IP, before taking a hard-hit comebacker to or just above the elbow of his throwing arm that ends the outing. Aaron Burr inherits a runner and allows two more hits. But a bad base running decision on the second hit catches Bradley Zimmer in a rundown between 3B and Home that results in the second out. Burr throws a K to end the 6th. Aaron Bummer goes SO, 1B, GO, K, in the 7th. Craig Kimbrel delivers 3 consecutive Ks, in the 8th. Liam Hendriks closes with a K and 2 GOs, for the save. OFFENSE: In his first outing since June 13, Indians starter Shane Bieber retires 9 White Sox in a row (3 SO) then calls it a day. The Indians bull pen is also formidable, giving up just 1 R—a solo HR (10) by Luis Robert—on 5 hits (0 BB, 8 SO). Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Injury – Dylan Cease leaves game in the 6th

Cease Injury Update

Field Level Media

September 25—X-rays of Dylan Cease‘s throwing arm are negative. He has a bruised right triceps. Says Cease, “It feels good now. I don’t anticipate on missing any time.” Officially, he is day to day.

Saturday, September 25, 2021 at 5:10 pm CDT
Progressive Field
Lance Lynn, RHP vs.
Indians / Eli Morgan, RHP

L, 6-0, 87-68 (.561), L1 | LP: Lance Lynn (10-6, 2.72) | Game 155

DEFENSE: Not Lance Lynn‘s best game, although it *probably* does not indicate trouble for the playoffs. He had command of his stuff through much of the outing, and 2 of the 6 R/ER given up in 6.0 IP were arguably errors (7 H, 0 BB, 6 SO). After giving up the third run in the 3rd, Lynn retired nine in a row. At one point, Lynn appeared uncomfortable and took a few warmup pitches during a mound visit to assess the situation. Lynn brushed it off, insisting he had “tweaked” his back, then finished out the inning. José Ruiz went 1-2-3 (1 SO) in the 7th. Ryan Burr allowed 1 H and struck out 3 in the 8th. OFFENSE: Indians starter Eli Morgan had a great outing, allowing just 1 H (1 BB, 6 SO) in 6.0 IP. The Indians bullpen allowed just 2 H more (1 BB, 2 SO) to clinch the shutout. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Rays Clinch AL East

Rays Primary Dark - Since 2019
MLB Advanced Media, LP

September 25—With today’s 7-3 win over the Marlins, the Rays clinch the American League Eastern Division title.

Sunday, September 26, 2021 at 12:10 pm CDT
Progressive Field
Lucas Giolito, RHP vs.
Indians / Triston McKenzie, RHP

W, 5-2, 88-68, (.564), W1 | WP: Lucas Giolito (11-9, 3.58) | S: Liam Hendriks (36) | Game 156

➤ This was to have been the last home game for the Indians as the Indians, but a makeup game against the Royals tomorrow (9/27/2021) will be the actual historic last home contest of the Indians Era.

DEFENSE: Another gem from Lucas Giolito. He falls behind in the count often, but makes good pitches when needed and gets a lot of hitters to chase—0 R on 5 H (1 BB, 6 SO) in 6.0 IP. Michael Kopech struggles in the 7th, allowing three consecutive base hits, giving up a run on the third. He retires the next batter (FO), before Garrett Crochet steps in to end the inning with a 5-4-3 DP. Craig Kimbrel looks a bit shaky in the 8th. He gives up a HR and retires the other 3 of 4 he faces. Liam Hendriks goes K, GO, 1B, GO, for the save. OFFENSE: Yasmani Grandal 1B scores Tim Anderson (walked, advanced to 2B on José Abreu 1B), in the 1st. Eloy Jiménez 2-RBI 1B, in the 3rd, brings in Leury Garcia (doubled) and José Abreu (walked, advanced to 2B on Yasmani Grandal walk). In the 6th, Leury Garcia RBI 1B brings home Andrew Vaughn (singled, advanced to 2B on Billy Hamilton sac bunt). Billy Hamilton steals Home in the 8th (singled, advanced to 3B on Tim Anderson 1B). Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Brian Goodwin Injured

Brian Goodwin CF 18
MLB Advanced Media, LP

September 26—Brian Goodwin has been placed on the 10-day injured list lower back spasms.

Brewers Clinch NL Central

Brewers Primary Dark - Since 2020
MLB Advanced Media, LP

September 26—With today’s 8-4 win over the Mets, the Brewers clinch the National League Central Division title.

Dodgers to NL Wild Card Game

Dodgers Primary Dark - Since 2012
MLB Advanced Media, LP

September 26—With today’s 3-0 win over the Diamondbacks, the Dodgers clinch the first spot in the National League Wild Card Game, on October 6. They remain in the running for the NL West title, with the Giants in 1st place.

Week of September 6-12, 2021

Adam Engel to Rehab

Adam Engel CF 15
MLB Advanced Media, LP

September 7—Outfielder Adam Engel has been assigned to rehab at Charlotte Knights (AAA). Engel has been on the IL since August 16 with left shoulder inflammation.

Three-Game Series at Oakland Athletics

Athletics win series 2-1

Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at 8:40 pm CDT
Oakland Coliseum
Jimmy Lambert, RHP vs.
Athletics / James Kaprielian, RHP

W, 6-3, 80-58 (.580), W1 | WP: Jimmy Lambert (1-1, 6.23) | S: Liam Hendriks (33) | Game 138

➤ Yoán Moncada goes 3-for-5, extending his hitting streak to 19 consecutive games.

Possible InjuryEloy Jiménez takes a foul ball to the knee.

DEFENSE: In his sixth MLB appearance (2 in 2020), starter Jimmy Lambert earns his first major league win, giving up 1 R/ER on 3 H (2 BB, 2 SO) in 5.0 IP. Lambert was to be the first leg of a bullpen game, but gets himself into the zone in the 3rd, retiring all but one batter in his last three innings. Garrett Crochet goes 1-2-3 (0 SO) in the 6th. Ryan Tepera throws BB, K, GO double play in the 7th. It takes both Ryan Burr (2 H, 2 R/ER, 0 BB, 0 SO in ⅓ IP) and Craig Kimbrel (1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 SO in ⅔ IP) to get out of the 8th. Liam Hendriks goes 1-2-3 (1 SO) in the 9th. OFFENSE: With one out in the 1st, Yasmani Grandal run-scoring BB scores Luis Robert (singled, advanced to 3B on Yoán Moncada double), and 3 are left stranded. In the 5th, Gavin Sheets RBI 1B scores Eloy Jiménez (singled, advanced to 2B on Yasmani Grandal single), César Hernández 2-run 1B scores Yasmani Grandal (singled, advanced to 2B on Gavin Sheets single, advanced to 3B on Leury Garcia single) and Gavin Sheets. Brian Goodwin 2-run 1B scores Yoán Moncada (doubled, advanced to 3B on wild pitch) and José Abreu (walked, advanced to 2B on wild pitch) in the 8th. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Eloy Jiménez Day to Day

Eloy Jiménez LF 74
MLB Advanced Media, LP

September 8—Eloy Jiménez suffered a right knee contusion last night when struck by an errant foul ball. He remains on the active roster.

Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at 8:40 pm CDT
Oakland Coliseum
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Athletics / Frankie Montas, RHP

L, 5-1, 80-59 (.576), L1 | LP: Dallas Keuchel (8-9, 5.33) | Game 139

➤ Yoán Moncada goes 0-for-3, ending his hitting streak at 19 as of (9/7).

DEFENSE: Dallas Keuchel gives up 5 R/ER on 8 H (1 BB, 3 SO) in 5⅔ IP. José Ruiz retires 4 of 5 A’s (1 SO) and Mike Wright, Jr. retires 3 of 4. OFFENSE: In the 5th, César Hernández reaches on a FC, as Leury García (doubled, advanced to 3B on Brian Goodwin single) scores the only run on an E3. Athletics starter Frankie Montas deals to win, striking out 7 White Sox (2 BB) through 7.0 IP. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Thursday, September 9, 2021 at 2:37 pm CDT
Oakland Coliseum
Reynaldo López, RHP vs.
Athletics / Sean Manaea, LHP

L, 3-1, 80-60 (.571), L2 | LP: Reynaldo López (3-2, 2.05) | Game 140

DEFENSE: Reynaldo López is solid through 5.0 IP, giving up 3 R (1 ER) on 6 H (3 BB, 2 SO), but makes a fateful throwing error in the 3rd that costs him the game. A wild pickoff attempt allows Sterling Marte to score from 2B (Marte had stolen 2B). Matt Olson advances to 3B on the error, then scores on a sac fly, making it 2-1 A’s. Ryan Burr, Aaron Bummer and Ryan Tepera each pitch a hitless inning with 0 BB and 2 SO. OFFENSE: José Abreu RBI 1B brings in César Hernández (doubled), in the 3rd. Athletics starter Sean Manaea strikes out 9 White Sox, issuing just 1 BB, through 7.0 IP. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

September 10—Lance Lynn activated from IL

Three-Game Series vs. Boston Red Sox

White Sox win series 2-1

Friday, September 10, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Carlos Rodón, LHP vs.
Red Sox / Tanner Houck, RHP

W, 4-3, 81-60 (.574), W1 | WP: Carlos Rodón (12-5, 2.38) | S: Liam Hendriks (34) | Game 141

DEFENSE: Carlos Rodón delivers again, allowing 1 R/ER on 3 H (0 BB, 7 SO) on 5.0 IP. In the 6th, Michael Kopech strikes out 2, then BB, 1B, before Aaron Bummer steps in to make the last out. In the 7th, Ryan Tepera goes 3B, RBI GO, 1B (SB on WP), RBI 1B, FC, before Garrett Crochet steps in to make the last out. It’s 4-3 Sox. Craig Kimbrel pitches a hitless 8th (1 BB, 2 SO), and Liam Hendriks pitches a scoreless 9th (1H, 0 BB, 0 SO) for the save. OFFENSE: José Abreu 3-run HR (29), on an 0-2 count, scores César Hernández (walked) and Yoán Moncada (singled), in the 3rd. Luis Robert RBI 1B scores Gavin Sheets (reached on E4), in the 4th. Red Sox starter Tanner Houck is out after 3⅔, after giving up the 4 runs (3 BB, 1 SO). The Red Sox bullpen strike out 6. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 6:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field – Sox Crawl
Dylan Cease, RHP vs.
Red Sox / Connor Seabold, RHP

L, 9-8, 81-61 (.570), L1 | LP: Mike Wright, Jr. (0-1, 3.86) | Game 142

Game highlights from mlb.com

Sunday, September 12, 2021 at 1:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Lance Lynn, RHP vs.
Red Sox / Nick Pivetta, RHP

W, 2-1, 82-61 (.573), W1 | WP: Craig Kimbrel (4-4, 2.18) | Game 143

Leury Garcia walk-off HR.

Game highlights from mlb.com

Week of August 16-22, 2021

Adam Engel Injured

Adam Engel CF 15
MLB Advanced Media, LP

August 16—Outfielder Adam Engel has been placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to August 13, with left shoulder inflammation, following the Field of Dreams Game on August 12.

August 16—Zack Burdi, RHP designated for assignment (CLAIMED BY ORIOLES ON 8/18)

Four-Game Series vs. Oakland Athletics

White Sox win series 3-1

Monday, August 16, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Athletics / Frankie Montas, RHP

W, 5-2, 69-50 (.580), W1 | WP: Dallas Keuchel (8-6, 4.48) | S: Liam Hendriks (27) | Game 119

DEFENSE: Dallas Keuchel faces 22 A’s in 5.0 IP, giving up 2 R/ER on 5 H (1 HBP, 2 BB, 2 SO). After giving up a HR with one out in the 2nd, Keuchel loads the bases with A’s on a HBP and 2 BB, but manages to contain the damage to just one more run. Michael Kopech throttles up the velocity to retire 6 of 7 (1 BB, 3 SO—all Ks) in the 6th and 7th. After striking out the lead-off batter, in the 8th, Craig Kimbrel gets himself into a jam—2 RISP on a HBP and a close-call, ground-rule 2B, with one out—then strikes out two more to end the inning. Liam Hendriks closes with three swinging strikeouts, for the save (27). That’s a total of 9 SO from the bullpen. OFFENSE: The Athletics score their only two runs in the 2nd, and the White Sox peck away at their lead. César Hernández sac fly brings in Seby Zavala (singled, advanced to 3B on Tim Anderson 1B), in the 3rd. Seby Zavala RBI 1B scores Luis Robert (singled, advanced to 2B on Brian Goodwin BB), in the 4th. Eloy Jiménez RBI 1B brings in Tim Anderson (singled, advanced to 2B on César Hernández soft bunt 1B), in the 5th. Seby Zavala sac bunt (safety squeeze) brings in Luis Robert (singled, stole 2B, advanced to 3B on Brian Goodwin GO), in the 6th. Luis Robert solo HR in the 8th. This is how “manufacturing runs” is supposed to work. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Yasmani Grandal Rehab Progress

Yasmani Grandal C 24
MLB Advanced Media, LP

August 17—Catcher Yasmani Grandal will continue rehab at Charlotte Knights (AAA), moving up from Birmingham Barons (AA). Grandal has been on the IL since July 6, with a torn tendon in the left knee.

Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Reynaldo López, RHP vs.
Athletics / Chris Bassitt, RHP

W, 9-0, 70-50 (.583), W2 | WP: Reynaldo López (2-0, 1.08) | Game 120

DEFENSE: Appearing in his second start of the season, Reynaldo López allows just 1 H (2 BB, 4 SO) on 5.0 IP, earning his second win. Ryan Burr allows 2 H (0 BB, 1 SO) in the 6th and 7th. Mike Wright, Jr. (called up yesterday) faces 7 A’s in the 8th and 9th, to complete the shutout (1 H, 1 BB, 1 SO). OFFENSE: The White Sox take an early lead in the 2nd, under unfortunate circumstances. Athletics starter, Chris Bassitt takes a 100.1-MPH comebacker in the face, as Brian Goodwin reaches for a single. Andrew Vaughn 2-run 1B brings in Eloy Jiménez (singled) and Yoán Moncada (singled, advanced to 2B on Brian Goodwin 1B). Jake Lamb–DH 3-run HR (6) scores Brian Goodwin (singled) and Andrew Vaughan (singled). José Abreu 3-run HR (25) brings in Jake Lamb–DH (walked) and César Hernández (singled), in the 4th. Tim Anderson 3B, in the 6th, scores Zack Collins (walked). Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Chris Bassitt comebacker

➤ The Athletics later report that Chris Bassitt “is conscious and aware, and is on his way to the hospital.” Heading into the game, Bassitt led the AL in wins, with a record of 12-3. He began his major league career with the White Sox in 2014.

Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Lance Lynn, RHP vs.
Athletics / Cole Irvin, LHP

W, 3-2, 71-50 (.587), W3 | WP: Garrett Crochet (3-5, 2.48) | S: Liam Hendriks (28) | Game 121

A tense evening at Sox Park, in which the threat of either team breaking the game open hangs in the air throughout. DEFENSE: Lance Lynn labors more than he usually has to. He faces 2 RISP with no outs in the 1st, on a lead-off BB, a 1B, and 2 SB, then retires three in a row (2 SO—both Ks). He opens the 2nd with another lead-off BB, then retires the next three (0 SO). He faces bases loaded with no outs in the 3rd, on a lead-off 2B, an E5 (Tim Anderson), and a BB. In a remarkable feat of athleticism, Lynn dodges the bullet, striking out #4–DH and #5 in the A’s lineup (both Ks) and retiring #6 on a pop out. He gives up a solo HR, but retires the other three of four batters he faces, in the 4th. At the end of 4, Lynn gets himself ejected—for behavior that the 3B umpire evidently deemed unsportsmanlike—during a routine inspection for sticky stuff. Lynn’s line: 3 H, 1 R/ER, 3 BB, 4 SO on 4.0 IP. Garrett Crochet takes the mound in the 5th, pitching a scoreless 1⅔ (1 H, 1 BB, 0 SO). Garrett Crochet steps in to make the last out (K) in the 6th, before giving up a lead-off 3B to Elvis Andrus, who scores on a sac fly, in the 7th. With one out and a man on, Aaron Bummer finishes the inning with a K, a BB, and a GO. In the 8th, Bummer goes GO, 1B, 1B, before Liam Hendriks takes over, with one out and two on. Hendriks retires the next two to end the 8th, then throws three consecutive Ks in the 9th, for the 5-out save (28). Earlier in the day, Hendriks publicly credits his wife for fixing his recent pitch tipping problem. OFFENSE: Eloy Jiménez RBI 2B, in the 1st, brings in César Hernández (singled on a bunt). Luis Robert RBI 1B scores Yoán Moncada (walked, advanced to 2B on Brian Goodwin BB), in the 4th. Robert rinses and repeats in the 6th, knocking in Moncada (singled, advanced to 2B on Goodwin BB) for the White Sox third run. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Chris Bassitt update from A’s manager Bob Melvin:

Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 1:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Dylan Cease, RHP vs.
Athletics / James Kaprielian, RHP

L, 5-4, 71-51 (.582), L1 | LP: Michael Kopech (3-2, 2.74) | Game 122

DEFENSE: Dylan Cease starts out strong, going 1-2-3 in the 1st and 2nd, then waivers a bit, but comes through with a quality start—3 R/ER on 4 H (4 BB, 5 SO) on 6.0 IP. Cease’s outing ends in a no decision, with the score tied at 3. Michael Kopeck gives up a 2-run HR, in the 7th (0 BB, 1 SO–K). In the 8th, Ryan Burr throws back-to-back Ks, followed by back-to-back BBs, before ending the inning on a groudout. José Ruiz issues a BB and records three groundouts, in the 9th. OFFENSE: Eloy Jiménez RBI 2B scores Luis Robert (singled, advanced to 2B on José Abreu BB), in the 1st inning, which ends with the bases loaded. Andrew Vaughn 2-run HR (15) scores Eloy Jiménez (walked), in the 5th. José Abreu reaches on E5, scoring Zack Collins (singled), in the 9th. In the 4th, the White Sox again load the bases (Joán Moncada 1B, Danny Mendick 1B, Zack Collins BB—all with two outs), but leave them stranded. Sox go down 1-2-3 in the 2nd, 3rd, 6th, and 7th. They get three outs and a BB in the 8th. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Three-Game Series at Tampa Bay Rays

Rays win series 2-1

Friday, August 20, 2021 at 6:10 pm CDT
Tropicana Field
Lucas Giolito, RHP vs.
Rays / Michael Wacha, RHP

W, 7-5, 72-51 (.585), W1 | WP: Liam Hendriks (8-3, 3.19) | S: Ryan Tepera (2) | Game 123

➤ Tim Anderson goes 3-for-6. He has knocked a base hit in 10 consecutive games.

Despite having the best record in the AL, the Rays have been drawing attendance of just 8,000, on average.

DEFENSE: With the Rays coming off a 4-game sweep of the Orioles, Lucas Giolito gives up just 2 R/ER on 3 H (0 BB, 8 SO) on 7.0 IP. In the 8th, Craig Kimbrel goes BB, LO, K on ⅔ IP. Aaron Bummer then issues a BB, allows a 1B that scores the inherited runner, intentionally walks Nelson Cruz, and gives up a 2-run 1B, before making the third out (GO). Garrett Crochet throws a hitless 9th (1 BB, 2 SO–both Ks). Liam Hendriks goes 1-2-3, in the 10th (1 SO). Ryan Tepera goes 1-2-3, in the 11th, on a GO and 2 Ks. OFFENSE: Michael Wacha (9 SO) and the Rays bullpen strike out 16 Sox, in total. Luis Robert RBI 2B scores Tim Anderson (reached on E4), in the 1st. In a productive 5th, José Abreu RBI FC scores Tim Anderson (singled, advanced to 2B on PB, advanced to 3B on Luis Robert GO), and Yoán Moncada 2-run HR (11) brings in José Abreu. Tim Anderson lead-off, solo HR, in the 9th, ties the game at 4—talk about a flare for the dramatic! But Sox leave two stranded, sending the game into extra innings. In the 11th, Tim Anderson 1B brings in the automatic runner, and José Abreu RBI GO scores Anderson (advanced to 2B on Rays attempt to put out automatic runner at home, advanced to 3B on PB). Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 12:10 pm CDT
Tropicana Field
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Rays / Luis Patiño, RHP

L, 8-4, 72-52 (.581), L1 | LP: Dallas Keuchel (8-7, 4.71) | Game 124

➤ Eloy Jiménez–DH goes 1-for-4. He has knocked a base hit in 10 consecutive games.

Tim Anderson is not in today’s lineup.

DEFENSE: The Rays offense is at their best today. Starting with an RBI 2B, followed by a 2-RBI 2B in the 1st, Dallas Keuchel has a tough outing—6 R/ER on 9 H, 2 BB, 3 SO on 5.0 IP. Mike Wright, Jr. goes 1-2-3 in the 6th, then FO, BB/CS, FO in the 7th. In the 8th, Wright gives up back-to-back 2Bs (both score), before José Ruiz steps in to make the last two outs (1 SO). OFFENSE: Seby Zavaya solo HR (5), in the 3rd. Eloy Jiménez–DH RBI 1B scores José Abreu (doubled), in the 6th. José Abreu sac fly brings in César Hernández (singled, advanced to 3B on Brian Goodwin 2B), and Eloy Jiménez–DH RBI GO scores Brian Goodwin (advanced to 3B on Abreu sac fly), in the 8th. José Abreu’s sac fly lands him in 7th place in career RBIs in franchise history (one more than Carlton Fisk). Abreu leads the MLB in RBIs (92) this season. Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Billy Hamilton to Rehab

Billy Hamilton CF 0
MLB Advanced Media, LP

August 21—Outfielder Billy Hamilton has been assigned to rehab at Charlotte Knights (AAA). Hamilton has been on the IL since August 1, with a right oblique strain.

Sunday, August 22, 2021 at 11:10 pm CDT
Tropicana Field
Reynaldo López, RHP vs.
Rays / Chris Archer, RHP

L, 9-0, 72-53 (.576), L2 | LP: Reynaldo López (2-1, 1.86) | Game 125

➤ Eloy Jiménez goes 1-for-4, extending his hitting streak to 11 consecutive games.

Tim Anderson is not in today’s lineup.

DEFENSE: Reynaldo López gives up 3 R/ER on 6 H, 0 BB, 4 SO on 4.0 IP. He goes 1-2-3 in the 2nd and the 4th. Garrett Crochet gives up 3 R/ER more on 1 H, 2 BB, 2 SO on 1⅔ IP. José Ruiz gives up 2 R/ER more on 2 H, 2 BB, 2 SO on 1⅓ IP. Ruiz balks in the 7th, scoring the runner on 3B (who he had walked, then advanced to 2B on walk #2). Ryan Burr gives up the last R/ER on 3 H, 0 BB, 0 SO, in the 8th. Fifteen of 22 runs scored by the Rays this series were scored with two outs. OFFENSE: Rays starter Chris Archer and reliever Shawn Armstrong strike out 8 Sox, allowing only 1 hit, through 4. Chris Mazza strikes out 2 more in the 5th and 6th. The scoreless Sox knock 7 H and draw 2 BB, against tough pitching, but can’t bring any home. Today is the second day of rest for Tim Anderson. The White Sox report that TA is experiencing “leg tightness.” Watch game highlights on mlb.com:

Week of August 9-15, 2021

August 9—Luis Robert activated from rehab
August 9—In/Outfielder Gavin Sheets optioned to Charlotte Knights (AAA)
August 9—Outfielder Luis González released (Claimed by Giants on 8/11)

Three-Game Series at Minnesota Twins

Twins win series 2-1

Monday, August 9, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Target Field
Lucas Giolito, RHP vs.
Twins / Beau Burrows, RHP

W, 11-1, 67-46 (.593), W4 | WP: Lucas Giolito (9-8, 3.81) | Game 113

DEFENSE: Lucas Giolito dominates across 8.0 IP, in another 2-hit gem (1 R/ER, 0 BB, 8 SO). Garrett Crochet retires 3 and walks 1 (2 SO), in the 9th. OFFENSE: The White Sox open the series with a shock-and-awe 1st inning: for the second night in a row, Tim Anderson leads off the top of the 1st with a solo HR (12), Eloy Jiménez–DH fires off a 2-run HR (4), bringing in César Hernández (walked), and Luis Robert reaches on an E3, scoring Brian Goodwin (doubled). In the 2nd, Eloy Jiménez–DH outdoes himself with a 3-run HR (5), bringing in Tim Anderson (singled) and César Hernández (walked again). Luis Robert RBI 2B brings in Yoán Moncada (singled), in the 5th. Brian Goodwin sac fly, brings in José Abreu (singled), in the 7th. Tim Anderson RBI 1B, brings in Leury García (walked), in the 8th. And finally, Yoán Moncada slams a solo HR (10), in the 9th. Watch game highlights at mlb.com:

Tuesday, August 10, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Target Field
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Twins / Griffin Jax, RHP

L, 4-3, 67-47 (.588), L1 | LP: Dallas Keuchel (7-6, 4.51) | Game 114

DEFENSE: Dallas Keuchel started off shaky, giving up 2 R on 1 H and 3 BB in the 1st, then was fairly solid in the 2nd through the 6th, before giving up a costly 2-run HR with 2 outs in the 6th (4 H, 4 R/ER, 4 BB, 1 HBP, 1 SO on 6.0 IP). Ryan Tepera retired 3 out of 4 (2 SO) in the 7th. Aaron Bummer allowed 1 H, issued 1 BB and struck out 3 in the 8th. OFFENSE: After a productive 3rd inning, in which Adam Engel 2-run HR (7) brings in César Hernández (singled), and José Abreu smacks a solo HR (22), the bats go silent. Watch game highlights at mlb.com:

Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at 12:10 pm CDT
Target Field
Reynaldo López, RHP vs.
Twins / Bailey Ober, RHP

L, 1-0, 67-48 (.583), L2 | LP: José Ruiz (1-2, 3.57) | Game 115

DEFENSE: Notified just today that he would be starting, in place of the originally scheduled Lance Lynn, Reynaldo López goes 1-2-3 in the 1st, allows a lead-off 2B and retires the next three in the 2nd, then issues 2 BB, picking off one of them, in the 3rd (1 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 SO on 3.0 IP). Reliever Garrett Crochet goes 1-2-3 (2 SO), in the 4th, then gives up a 1B and issues a BB with two outs, in the 5th. Both runners advance on a pickoff E1, but Crochet works himself out of the jam with a swinging strikeout to end the inning—4 SO on 2.0 IP. In the 6th, José Ruiz gives up the only run—a solo HR—to Jorge Polanco (1 BB, 2 SO). Matt Foster goes 1-2-3 (1 SO) in the 7th. Craig Kimbrel allows a 3B by Jorge Polanco on two outs, but retires the fourth batter, to end the 8th (1 SO). OFFENSE: Twins starter Bailey Ober allows 6 hits (1 BB, 1 SO) on 5⅓ IP, and the Twins bullpen allow none, collectively striking out four more White Sox to complete the shutout. Watch game highlights at mlb.com:

Yasmani Grandal to Rehab

Yasmani Grandal C 24
MLB Advanced Media, LP

August 11—Catcher Yasmani Grandal has been assigned to rehab at Birmingham Barons (AA).

Carlos Rodón to Injured List

Carlos Rodón Wears 1917 Throwback Uniform
MLB Advanced Media, LP

August 11—Carlos Rodón, who was to start in tomorrow’s Field of Dreams game vs. the Yankees, has been placed on the 10-Day injured list, with left shoulder fatigue.

Three-Game Series vs. New York Yankees

Yankees win series 2-1

2021 Field of Dreams Logo
MLB Advanced Media, LP
Field of Dreams - Dyersville, Iowa
ESPN
MLB Advanced Media, LP Lynn
10-3, 2.04, 130
Andrew Heaney LHP 38 - Portrait
MLB Advanced Media, LP Heaney
7-8, 5.45, 126

Thursday, August 12, 2021 at 6:15 pm CDT
Field of Dreams – Dyersville, Iowa
Lance Lynn, LHP vs.
Yankees / Andrew Heaney, LHP

W, 9-8, 68-48 (.586), W1 | WP: Liam Hendriks (7-2, 3.08) | Game 116

➤ MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred commits to returning to the Field of Dreams next season.

➤ The game is managed by bench coach Miguel Cairo, as Tony La Russa misses the game to attend the funeral of his sister’s husband.

DEFENSE: In what was a magical night for baseball and for the nation (5.9 million viewers), Lance Lynn throws a nice start against a tough Yankees lineup—4 H, 4 R/ER, 2 BB, 7 SO on 5.0+ IP. Lynn gives up a solo HR to Brett Gardner and walks Joey Gallo before he is relieved by Michael Kopech, in the 6th. Kopech retires the next three. In the 7th, with one out and a man on (bunted single), he walks DJ LeMahieu, after an unfavorable call that would have meant a SO. Too visibly enraged to continue, Kopech is relieved by Aaron Bummer, who gets the last two outs, giving up a BB in the process. In the 8th, Craig Kimbrel goes GO, BB, then 2 SO. Finally, in the 9th, Liam Hendriks delivers his sixth blown save of the season. Tyler Wade singles on Hendriks’ first pitch. He strikes out the next two. Then Aaron Judge slams a 2-run HR—his second of the night—making it 7-6 White Sox. He walks Joey Gallo, before giving up another 2-run HR to Giancarlo Stanton. Yankees lead 8-7. Hendriks strikes out Luke Voit for the last out. Courtesy of Tim Anderson, it will be the fourth blown save of the season that results in a win for Hendriks. OFFENSE: José Abreu solo HR (23), in 1st, earns him the distinction of hitting the first HR in Iowa in MLB history, and puts him in third place on the White Sox career homers list, with 222 career HRs, behind Frank Thomas (438) and Paul Konerko (432). Tim Anderson RBI double and Eloy Jiménez 3-run homer (6), in 3rd. Seby Zavala 2-run homer (4), in the 4th. White Sox bats go quiet until the bottom of the 9th, when Tim Anderson saves the day with a glorious 2-run walk-off HR—the eighth home run scored in the picture-perfect game. The series resumes on Saturday in Chicago. Watch game highlights at mlb.com:

TA’s walk-off smash

Saturday, August 14, 2021 at 6:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Dylan Cease, RHP vs.
Yankees / Jameson Taillon, RHP

L, 7-5, 68-49 (.581), L1 | LP: Liam Hendriks (7-3, 3.42) | Game 117

DEFENSE: Dylan Cease pitches a solid 5-inning no decision (4 H, 3 R/ER, 0 BB, 6 SO), before Tony La Russa burns through six relievers to finish out the game (10 innings)—Garrett Crochet (1 BB, 4 SO on 1⅔ IP) and Ryan Tepera (1 BB, 1 SO on ⅓ IP) give up no runs in the 6th and 7th. Craig Kimbrel gives up a solo HR (0 BB, 1 SO), in the 8th. Matt Foster preserves the 4-4 tie (1 BB, 1 SO), in the 9th. In the 10th, Liam Hendriks gives up a 1B to Aaron Judge, who scores the automatic runner, followed by a 2-run HR to Joey Gallo, making it 7-4 Yankees with no outs. Hendriks retires the third batter, before José Ruiz steps in to deliver the last two outs, in order. OFFENSE: Eloy Jiménez RBI ground out scores Tim Anderson (singled, advanced to 3B on José Abreu double), in the 1st. Luis Robert solo HR (2), in the 2nd. Eloy Jiménez sac fly scores César Hernández (singled, advanced to 3B on José Abreu double), in the 3rd. José Abreu solo HR (24), in the 9th. Luis Robert RBI 1B scores the automatic runner, and three are stranded, in the 10th. Watch game highlights at mlb.com:

Sunday, August 15, 2021 at 1:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Lucas Giolito, RHP vs.
Yankees / Nestor Cortes, LHP

L, 5-3, 68-50 (.576), L2 | LP: Lucas Giolito (9-9, 3.83) | Game 118

DEFENSE: Lucas Giolito labors against the Yankees lineup. He faces 22 batters in 4.0 IP, allowing 6 H, and giving up 3 R (2 ER), with 3 BB and 8 SO. He is relieved by Ryan Tepera, in the 5th. Tepera walks Giancarlo Stanton, who steals 2B on a wild pitch. He strikes out Kyle Higashioka, who reaches on a passed ball by Seby Zavala. But Tepera makes it through the inning without giving up a run (2 SO). José Ruiz issues 2 BB and retires 4 (2 SO) on 1⅓ IP. Aaron Bummer issues 2 BB (1 intentional–Aaron Judge) and retires 5 (3 SO) on 1⅔ IP. In the 9th, Matt Foster gives up a 2B, a 2-run HR, and a 1B, then retires the next three. César Hernández makes 3 errors—2 throwing and 1 fielding. OFFENSE: Yankees left-handed starter, Nestor Cortes, Jr., pitches 6.0 strong innings against the White Sox (7 H, 1 R/ER, 1 BB, 7 SO). Andrew Vaughn solo HR (14) in the 6th. In the 9th, Zach Collins RBI 2B scores Yoán Moncada–DH (walked), and Tim Anderson RBI 1B scores Luis Robert (singled), before César Hernández hits into a game-ending double play. Tony La Russa is ejected in the 8th, following a rather subdued confrontation with the HP umpire regarding a third strike called on Eloy Jiménez. Watch game highlights at mlb.com:

Leury García Injured

August 15—Veteran super-utility man and struggling hitter Leury García has been placed on the 7-day injured list, retroactive to August 13, due to a concussion sustained when he banged his head into the wall jumping for Giancarlo Stanton’s go-ahead HR in the 9th inning of the Field of Dreams Game, on August 12.

Week of August 2-8, 2021

Three-Game Series vs. Kansas City Royals

Royals win series 2-1

Tuesday, August 3, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Dylan Cease, RHP vs.
Royals / Kris Bubic, LHP

W, 7-1, 63-44 (.589), W2 | WP: Dylan Cease (8-6, 3.92) | Game 107

DEFENSE: Dylan Cease throws a dominant, scoreless 6 innings (2 BB, 11 SO). Beautiful. Michael Kopeck gives up the Royals only run in the 7th. Garrett Crochet works a scoreless 8th. Ryan Tepera goes 1-2-3 in the 9th (1 SO). OFFENSE: Royals starter Kris Bubic pitches a quality start, giving up 3 runs and striking out 8 on 6.0 IP. But Royals reliever Kyle Zimmer issues three consecutive BBs to start the 7th, setting up a 4-run inning for the White Sox. Andrew Vaughn solo HR (12) in the 2nd. Tim Anderson 2-run HR (10) in the 3rd. Seby Zavala run-scoring BB, Tim Anderson RBI 1B, and José Abreu 2-RBI 1B in the 7th. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Lucas Giolito, RHP vs.
Royals / Carlos Hernández, RHP

L, 9-1, 63-45 (.583). L1 | LP: Lucas Giolito (8-8, 3.98) | Game 108

DEFENSE: Lucas Giolito doesn’t have it tonight. He gives up 6 ER on 4.0 IP (8 H, 6 R, 0 BB, 2 SO). Reliever Matt Foster (called up 8/3) pitches 2.0 clean innings. José Ruiz throws the next 2.0 IP, giving up 3 ER on 4 H (1 BB, 0 SO). Aaron Bummer goes 1-2-3 in the 9th (1 SO). OFFENSE: José Abreu solo HR (19) in the 4th produces the only run for the White Sox. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Royals / Daniel Lynch, LHP

L, 3-2, 63-46 (.578), L2 | LP: Dallas Keuchel (7-5, 4.44) | Game 109

DEFENSE: Dallas Keuchel – 3 H, 2 R/ER, 3 BB, 5 SO on 6.0+ IP. OFFENSE: José Abreu solo HR (20) with two outs in the 1st. Eloy Jiménez RBI 2B in the 8th. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Three-Game Series at Chicago Cubs

White Sox sweep series 3-0 | 2021 Crosstown Classic 3-0 (continues August 27)

• Third-ever 3-game sweep vs. Cubs
• Tied Cubs for most HRs in a 6-game span ever at Wrigley Field (20)
• Cubs only team to allow 3+ first-inning HRs in multiple games this season (2)

…just sayin.

Friday, August 6, 2021 at 1:20 pm CDT
Wrigley Field
Lance Lynn, RHP vs.
Cubs / Kyle Hendricks, RHP

W, 8-6, 64-46 (.582), W1 | WP: Liam Hendriks (6-2, 2.40) | Game 110

DEFENSE: Following a 17-minute rain delay, with the Cubs wearing their “Wrigleyville” City Connect unis, Lance Lynn delivers another high-quality start, giving up just 1 run and striking out 8 on 6.0+ IP (4 H, 1 R/ER, 1 BB), to bring his ERA down to 2.04. Lynn does face one batter (Andrew Romine) in the 7th, who bunts a 1B, before Tony La Russa calls it a day. Lynn gets little help from the bullpen. Still in the 7th, Michael Kopeck throws a BB, a flyout, and a sac fly run. Aaron Bummer then retires Patrick Wisdom on a flyout (with the help of Brian Goodwin) to end the inning. When Greg Kimbrel takes the mound in the 8th, his former teammates have his number. He blows the save, allowing 3 singles and giving up a 3-run homer (to Andrew Romine, who has not hit a big league HR since 2017) to tie the game at 4. Liam Hendriks steps in to stop the bleeding, with three swinging strikeouts (1H), in the 9th. Garrett Crochet gives up a 2-run HR (0 BB, 0 SO), in the 10th. OFFENSE: In the 9th, former White Sox Codi Heuer (1 BB) pitches well against his former teammates, striking out Tim Anderson, and pitching José Abreu into a groundout double play. Earlier, Andrew Vaughn RBI 1B, in the 4th. César Hernández 2-run HR (his 1st as a White Sox, 19th on the season), in the 8th. It’s still 4-4 at the end of 9. In the 10th, Brian Goodwin 2-run HR (7), Gavin Sheets–PH and Tim Anderson knock an RBI 1B each. Cubs first baseman Frank Schwindel answers with a 2-run HR of his own, but it’s not enough to clinch the first game of the crosstown series. Notably, La Russa subs out Eloy Jiménez (1-for-4) for a pinch runner (Brian Goodwin), after he doubles, in the 6th. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

August 6—Jake Lamb activated from rehab

Saturday, August 7, 2021 at 1:20 pm CDT
Wrigley Field
Carlos Rodón, LHP vs.
Cubs / Adbert Alzolay, RHP

W, 4-0, 65-46 (.586), W2 | WP: Carlos Rodón (9-5) | Game 111

DEFENSE: Carlos Rodón throws another gem, striking out 11 in 5.0+ shutout innings (2 H, 2 BB). After Rodón issues his second consecutive lead-off walk in the 6th, La Russa sends in Michael Kopech, who immediately gets the first out (K), then gives up a base hit, then gets the second out (PO), leaving Cubs runners on the corners. José Abreu gets him out of the jam with an arm-extended-lunge-position catch at 1st, for the final out (GO to Yoán Moncada at 3rd). With Kopech subbed out for pinch-hitter Gavin Sheets, Aaron Bummer takes the mound in the 7th (1 H, 2 SO). In the wake of yesterday’s disaster, Craig Kimbrel gets back on the horse to pitch a clean 1-2-3 inning, in the 8th. Ryan Tepera takes on 4 of his former teammates in the 9th, to clinch the shutout (1 H, 1 SO). OFFENSE: Yoán Moncada 2-RBI 2B in the 1st. Back-to-back solo HRs by César Hernández (20 – 18 CLE, 2 CWS) and José Abreu (21), in the 8th. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

ESPN Sunday Night Baseball
ESPN

Sunday, August 8, 2021 at 6:08 pm CDT
Wrigley Field – ESPN Sunday Night Baseball
Exclusively on ABC
Dylan Cease, RHP vs.
Cubs / Zach Davies, RHP

W, 9-3, 66-46 (.589), W3 | WP: Dylan Cease (9-6, 3.99) | Game 112

DEFENSE: Dylan Cease throws a solid 5.0 inning start, giving up 3 earned and striking out 10 (5 H, 3 R, 3 BB). His command waivers a bit in the 2nd and 3rd, but he recovers, retiring the next 6 Cubs (5 of them strikeouts), in the 4th and 5th. (Cease currently has the largest home-road ERA differential in the AL.) Reynaldo López delivers a scoreless 2 innings (1 H, 3 SO) in the 6th and 7th. Ryan Tepera goes 1-2-3 (0 SO) in the 8th. José Ruiz strikes out 3 in the 9th. The 2021 White Sox now have the most 10+ strikeout games in a season in franchise history (17)—and it’s only August 8. OFFENSE: On national TV, the Sox proudly smash 3 HRs in the 1stTim Anderson solo HR (11) off the first pitch of the game, Eloy Jiménez 2-run HR (2) brings in Adam Engel (singled), and Andrew Vaughn 2-run HR (13) brings in Yoán Moncada (walked). Most first-inning HRs in a road game in franchise history, and the first time White Sox hit 3 first-inning HRs since 07/03/2012. Eloy Jiménez 2-RBI double, in the 2nd. Eloy Jiménez solo HR (3) in the 5th. Andrew Vaughn RBI 1B, in the 7th. La Russa had given Tim Anderson the night off, but TA comes in early for some extra BP and talks his way back into the lineup, telling La Russa, “I found something.” And so he did. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Week of July 26-Aug 1, 2021

July 26—Eloy Jiménez activated from rehab

Luis Robert Rehab Progress

Luis Robert CF 88
MLB Advanced Media, LP

July 26—Outfielder Luis Robert to continue rehab at Charlotte Knights (AAA), moving up from Winston-Salem Dash (A+).

Four-Game Series at Kansas City Royals

Royals win series 3-1

Monday, July 26, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Kauffman Stadium
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Royals / Mike Minor, LHP

L, 4-3, 59-41 (.590), L1 | LP: Dallas Keuchel (7-4, 4.32) | Game 100

DEFENSE: Dallas Keuchel allows 4 R on 6.0 IP (6 H, 4 R/ER, 1 BB, 3 SO), including 2 solo HRs by Jorge Soler, and a third by Andrew Benintendi. Cori Heuer (1-2-3, 0 SO) and Garrett Crochet (2 H, 1 BB, 2 SO) finish out the game, pitching a scoreless inning each. OFFENSE: Andrew Vaughn 2-RBI 1B in the 6th. Adam Engel RBI 1B in the 9th. Fresh off the IL, Eloy Jiménez goes 0-for-4, but is visibly excited to be back in the lineup. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Tuesday, July 27, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Kauffman Stadium
Dylan Cease, RHP vs.
Royals / Brad Keller, RHP

W, 5-3, 60-41 (.594), W1 | WP: Reynaldo Lopez (1-0, 2.00) | S: Liam Hendriks (25) | Game 101

DEFENSE: Dylan Cease allows 3 R on 6.0 IP (6 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 SO). Reynaldo López (1 SO), Michael Kopech (3 SO), and Liam Hendriks (1 SO) pitch a 1-2-3, no-hit inning each. OFFENSE: Eloy Jiménez 3-run HR (1) off Kyle Zimmer in the 8th. Jiménez also shines defensively, making two difficult running catches in the 4th, and throwing Michael A. Taylor out at home in the 2nd. Gavin Sheets solo HR (6) in the 4th Yoán Moncada RBI groundout in the 8th. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Kauffman Stadium
Lucas Giolito, RHP vs.
Royals / Kris Bubic, LHP

L, 3-2, 60-42 (.588), L1 | LP: Ryan Burr (2-1, 3.26) | Game 102

DEFENSE: Lucas Giolito gives up just 1 R, striking out 7, on 6.0 IP (4 H, 1 ER, 1 BB). Aaron Bummer (2 SO) and Michael Kopech (0 SO) pitch a no-hit inning each, before Liam Hendriks gives up the tying run—a Salvador Perez solo HR—in the 9th. A Michael A. Taylor 1B brings in the automatic runner to win the game for the Royals in the 10th. OFFENSE: The White Sox 5 H are all off starter Kris Bubic (3 SO). The Royals bullpen strikes out 6. Danny Mendick 2-RBI 1B in the 5th brings in Andrew Vaughn (1B) and Leury García (1B). Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Thursday, July 29, 2021 at 1:10 pm CDT
Kauffman Stadium
Carlos Rodón, LHP vs.
Royals / Carlos Hernández, RHP

L, 5-0, 60-43 (.583), L2 | LP: Carlos Rodón (8-5, 2.49) | Game 103

DEFENSE: Carlos Rodón allows 8 H and 4 R on 4.0 IP (4 ER, 0 BB, 4 SO), starting with a 2-run HR by Salvador Perez in the 1st. He gives up a solo HR to Michael A. Taylor in the 2nd, and Hunter Dozier brings in Carlos Santana on a sac fly in the 3rd, making it 4-0 Royals. Rodón’s velocity is a few MPH lower than normal through the first couple of innings. With Reynaldo López pitching in the 5th, Jorge Soler reaches on an E6 (Leury García), then advances to third on a Hunter Dozier 2B, and scores on a Michael A. Taylor sac fly. López goes 1-2-3 in the 6th (1 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 SO on 2.0 IP). Ryan Burr delivers 2.0 no-hit innings, giving up 2 BB (0 SO). The White Sox turn a 4-5-3 double play to finish out the 8th. OFFENSE: Royals starter, Carlos Hernández, gives up just 4 H and 1 BB to the White Sox on 6.0 IP (4 SO). Their bullpen allows just one more hit and strikes out 5, for the shutout. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

July 29—Evan Marshall, RHP moved from 10-day to 60-day IL (to make room on 40-man roster)

2021 Trade Deadline

University of Delhi

The 2021 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline is Friday, July 30 at 4:00 pm EDT.

Three-Game Series vs. Cleveland Indians

White Sox win series 2-1

Friday, July 30, 2021 at 7:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Lance Lynn, RHP vs.
Indians / J.C. Mejia, RHP

W, 6-4, 61-43 (.587), W1 | WP: José Ruiz (1-1, 2.90) | S: Liam Hendriks (26) | Game 104

DEFENSE: Lance Lynn gives up 3 R on 7 H for a 5-inning no decision (3 ER, 1 BB, 7 SO). Garrett Crochet and Aaron Bummer pitch a clean inning each. But Ryan Tepera’s White Sox debut in the 8th is less-than-illustrious. He gives up a HR and a 1B, then issues a BB, before being replaced by José Ruiz, who retires the next three to end the inning (the first out comes on a sac bunt that loads the bases with Indians). Lethal Liam Hendriks goes 1-2-3 (2 SO) for the save (26). OFFENSE: In the 2nd, a one-in-a-million situation occurs when Cleveland outfielders Bradley Zimmer and Daniel Johnson collide at the center-field wall, both running to catch Yoán Moncada’s line drive, which rebounds out of Zimmer’s glove, sending it over the wall for a solo HR that should have been a lineout. Brian Goodwin RBI 1B brings Moncada in from second base, in the 4th. Then, with one out and two on, Leury García grounds into a force out at second, beats the throw to first for a base hit, and brings in a run. Andrew Vaughn run-scoring BB in the 5th. Tim Anderson RBI 1B in the 8th, before José Abreu HBP with bases loaded and no outs forces the final run of the game. “Controlled pandemonium” ensues…

La Russa Rushes Infield

When James Karinchak hits José Abreu in the noggin with a 96 MPH fastball, Tony La Russa rushes out of the dugout to confront Indians catcher Roberto Pérez—a run that launches a thousand memes (see below). Both benches clear, but no blows are exchanged. In the end, Abreu hugs Karinchak and takes his base.

La Russa runs with the Beatles
La Russa runs with Forrest Gump
La Russa runs to the vault

Tony La Russa on tempers flaring after José Abreu HBP

Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

July 30—SS Danny Mendick and RHP Ryan Burr optioned to Charlotte Knights (AAA)

Saturday, July 31, 2021 at 6:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Dallas Keuchel, LHP vs.
Indians / Triston McKenzie, RHP

L, 12-11, 61-44 (.581), L1 | LP: Michael Kopech (3-1, 2.55) | Game 105

Rookie catcher Seby Zavaya goes 4-for-4, becoming the first Big League player ever to slam his first three career HRs in a single game—and the second of his three consecutive homers just happens to be a Grand Slam! He tops off the night with a 1B on his 4th and final at bat of the game. Watch game highlights from mlb.com:

Sunday, August 1, 2021 at 1:10 pm CDT
Guaranteed Rate Field
Jimmy Lambert, RHP vs.
Indians / Cal Quantrill, RHP

W, 2-1, 62-44 (.585), W1 | WP: Liam Hendriks (5-2, 2.47) | Game 106

Game highlights from mlb.com

Billy Hamilton to Injured List

Billy Hamilton CF 0
MLB Advanced Media, LP

August 1—Outfielder Billy Hamilton is back on the 10-day injured list with a right oblique strain, the same injury that landed him there on June 6. This is Hamilton’s third time on the IL this season.