Both the Chicago White Sox (40-55) and New York Mets (43-50) expected to hit 50 wins before 50 losses. Yet, here they are, approaching the pivotal trade deadline on the wrong side of .500. Neither team is firmly out just yet, but the future is bleak for both sides. The past is written in stone, but the future can forge a new path if either side catches fire. With both sides fresh off wins, they'll play in Citi Field seeking another as the clock ticks. The first pitch of this three-game series is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. EDT on Tuesday.
Taking on the MLB-best Atlanta Braves on the road proved no problem for the South Siders, who took two of three before flying to Queens. After getting blanked on Friday, the White Sox responded with 14 runs over the next two days. That's far from Chicago's norm this season considering they're 26th in runs per game. With MLB's lowest walk rate and a slugging percentage that's only 23rd, it's no surprise that they struggle to score. The White Sox also don't steal many bases and have a strikeout rate that's 20th in the league. If Luis Robert Jr. and Jake Burger aren't going yard, their bats are prone to be quiet.
4-for-4. Luis Robert Jr. is hot today! pic.twitter.com/MH46OBv9f8
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) July 16, 2023
Holding the Braves to only two runs during those two wins was also impressive. Especially considering that Chicago's bullpen has been one of MLB's worst, with the starting rotation not faring much better. Lucas Giolito has been an exception, pitching incredibly since the calendar flipped to June. Over seven starts dating back to June 6, Giolito has a 2.45 ERA. He only allowed more than two earned runs in one of those outings. Giolito has an impressive 3.44 K/BB and a 1.139 WHIP. Chicago doesn't win all of his starts, but it's hard to pin the blame on him.