The Chicago Cubs hope to end their odd penchant for five-game streaks with a sixth straight victory when they host the crosstown-rival Chicago White Sox in the finale of a three-game series Sunday. The Cubs have matched their season high with five consecutive victories following a five-game losing streak, which was preceded by another five-game winning streak.
The Cubs have outscored the opposition 50-15 during their current winning streak, and Saturday’s 8-4 win marked only the second time during the streak that they failed to score in double digits. Willson Contreras has been one of the biggest contributors to the offensive outburst, going 10-for-15 with three doubles, two triples, three homers, and 11 RBIs in the past three games. The White Sox have lost seven straight and 11 of their last 12 and own the worst record in the majors. The White Sox are 0-6 in interleague play this season and have lost 15 of their last 17 road games against the National League.
TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, MLB Network, NBCS Chicago (White Sox), WGN (Cubs)
PITCHING MATCHUP: White Sox RH Lucas Giolito (1-4, 7.25 ERA) vs. Cubs RH Kyle Hendricks (3-2, 3.02)
Giolito labored through four innings in his last start Tuesday against Pittsburgh, allowing four runs and seven hits in a no-decision. The 23-year-old has pitched better away from home, though, posting a 4.07 ERA in four road starts compared to 13.89 in three outings at home. Giolito is making his first appearance against the Cubs.
Hendricks has been outstanding over his last three starts, allowing five runs in 22 2/3 innings. After battling his command a bit early in the season, the 28-year-old precision pitcher has issued only two walks over his last four starts, and he didn’t walk anyone in eight innings of two-run ball against Miami last time out. Hendricks is 0-1 with a 3.98 ERA in four starts against the White Sox.
WALK-OFFS
1. After batting .149 through the end of April, Cubs 1B Anthony Rizzo is 13-for-38 with five homers and 14 RBIs in nine games this month.
2. White Sox INF Yolmer Sanchez is 4-for-5 with a double versus Hendricks.
3. Cubs 2B Javier Baez has 39 hits, 23 of which have gone for extra bases.