The Chicago White Sox (44–78, 18–42 away) head to Kauffman Stadium on Sunday to wrap up their weekend set against the Kansas City Royals (61–61, 31–29 home). First pitch is scheduled for 2:10 PM ET, with both clubs aiming to take momentum into the final stretch of August.
Chicago enters with one of the AL’s worst records, while Kansas City has fought to stay near .500, hoping to remain relevant in the Wild Card picture. With two young pitchers on the mound, this game offers intrigue for bettors and fans alike.
Recent Team Form
Chicago White Sox (Last 5):
- L 3–1 @ KC
- L 1–0 vs DET
- W 9–6 vs DET
- L 2–1 vs DET
- W 6–4 vs CLE
Chicago’s offense has gone cold again, averaging just 3.4 runs per game over their last five. While Lenyn Sosa and a few bright spots continue to show promise, consistency remains a glaring issue.
Kansas City Royals (Last 5):
- W 3–1 vs CHW
- L 8–7 vs WSH
- W 8–5 vs WSH
- W 7–4 vs WSH
- L 5–3 @ MIN (11 inn.)
The Royals have been more competitive, winning three of their last five and showing resilience in tight games. Their young core continues to grow, with Salvador Perez providing veteran stability.
Probable Pitchers
| Team | Starter | W-L | ERA | WHIP | IP | H | K | BB | HR | Blurb |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHW | Davis Martin (RHP) | 4–9 | 4.17 | 1.30 | 101.1 | 101 | 70 | 31 | 15 | Martin has been serviceable but not dominant, often giving Chicago five innings while struggling to miss bats consistently. |
| KC | Ryan Bergert (RHP) | 1–1 | 2.87 | 1.09 | 47.0 | 30 | 44 | 21 | 5 | Bergert is still establishing himself, but early results are impressive — he limits hits well and has strikeout potential. |
Key Players to Watch
Chicago White Sox
- Lenyn Sosa (.273 AVG, 15 HR, 49 RBI) — the breakout bright spot in a tough season.
- Andrew Vaughn — a needed source of power and run production in the middle of the lineup.
- Luis Robert Jr. (if healthy) — still their best all-around talent when on the field.
Kansas City Royals
- Salvador Perez (.246 AVG, 22 HR, 69 RBI) — continues to drive in runs as the veteran leader.
- Maikel Garcia (.301 AVG) — consistent bat at the top, setting the tone for the offense.
- Vinnie Pasquantino (80 RBI) — questionable for Sunday, but a huge run-producer if he plays.
Matchup Breakdown
The White Sox have struggled in nearly every phase this year — ranking near the bottom of the league in batting average, OBP, and runs scored. Davis Martin gives them a chance to compete, but he rarely dominates.
Kansas City’s youth movement has kept them afloat, with Garcia and Pasquantino leading the way while Perez provides pop. Bergert’s small-sample success is encouraging, especially against a weak Chicago lineup that has scored just 2 runs in its last two games combined.
The Royals’ pitching staff (3.64 ERA) has been more consistent than Chicago’s (4.11 ERA), and at home, they hold the clear edge.
Best Bets
- Royals ML (-135) — KC’s offense should do enough against Martin to secure the win.
- Under 9.5 (-115) — with both lineups struggling recently, runs may be at a premium.
- Salvador Perez to Record an RBI — in a favorable matchup against a hittable righty.
Prediction
The Royals are the stronger team across the board and should take advantage of Chicago’s lack of offense. Bergert continues his solid debut season with another quality start, while Perez and Garcia provide timely hits.
Final Score: Royals 5, White Sox 2
