Cubs Win Over White Sox in Sizemore's First Game

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Cubs triumphed over the crosstown rival White Sox with a 7-6 victory on Friday night, marking a challenging debut for White Sox manager Grady Sizemore. The Cubs showcased their power, hitting four home runs, including a leadoff shot from Ian Happ and a homer from Cody Bellinger. The team surged to a 7-0 lead after a four-run third inning, chasing White Sox starter Garrett Crochet from the mound. Despite the strong start, the Cubs faced a late-game scare as the White Sox rallied with four runs in the fourth inning, highlighted by Andrew Vaughn's 14th homer. The White Sox continued to chip away, with Andrew Benintendi's solo shot in the seventh narrowing the gap to just one run. However, Cubs closer Adbert Alzolay secured his 16th save of the season, retiring Vaughn to seal the win. The victory marked the Cubs' seventh win in their last nine games, while the White Sox suffered their 23rd loss in 24 games, falling to a franchise-worst 62 games below .500 at 28-90. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed cautious optimism about Bellinger potentially returning to the outfield next week, as he has primarily served as the designated hitter since his return from injury. Looking ahead, Cubs pitcher Justin Steele aims for his second consecutive win, while the White Sox will send Chris Flexen to the mound in their ongoing struggle to turn the season around.