The Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Guardians have faced each other 16 times between the regular season and the first three games of the American League Division Series. Their contests are close, with only one run separating them: 69 for the Guardians and 68 for the Sox.
Manager Will Venable expressed his thoughts on these matchups before Game 4 at Rate Field. He noted that although the two teams are different, they share an evident character. Both teams consist of skilled and diligent players who play the game correctly. He remarked on the competitive spirit and how it’s been engaging to watch the series.
“It’s been fun to watch. It’s tough and obviously they’re very competitive, but we’re very competitive,” Venable stated.
The Sox currently hold a 2-1 lead in the ALDS. Here’s what you need to know heading into Game 4.
Preparation for Game 4
Sox’s second baseman, Chase Meidroth, struck out to conclude the seventh inning of Game 3 against the Guardians. Venable viewed Game 3 as a useful preview for the upcoming game.
Venable mentioned the intense atmosphere, stating the team realized the environment’s impact. The Sox displayed one of their highest chase rates of the season. With this experience, they aim to recalibrate their strategy, especially facing Parker Messick again. Knowing Messick well leaves no surprises regarding the conditions and challenges.
The Sox struck out 19 times in Game 3, setting a nine-inning postseason record. Outfielder Tristan Peters reflected on the game, pointing out how the charged environment led to chasing pitches and struggles with finding gaps for hits. Peters emphasized the need for more patience in future at-bats.
Confronting a Familiar Pitcher
Thursday’s matchup marked the sixth time the Sox have encountered Messick. In Game 1 at Progressive Field, Messick conceded two runs on four hits across 4 1/3 innings. He struck out six and issued two walks, leading to a 3-0 loss to the Sox.
“We’ve seen him a lot,” Peters remarked. “I think we know how he’s going to pitch us.”
Peters expressed confidence that the Sox could handle Messick effectively. The team’s familiarity with his style potentially provides an edge.
Pitching Strategy
Pitcher Hagen Smith remained available after pitching two-thirds of an inning the previous day. Feeling confident about his readiness, Smith was chosen to start Game 4.
Smith’s recent performance included allowing one run on one hit and two walks. Though he walked 10 as a team, Venable remained confident in Smith, citing his overall positive performance and contributions in the postseason.
Smith will start Game 4 with the following lineup:
- Chase Meidroth – 2B
- Randal Grichuk – LF
- Miguel Vargas – 3B
- Munetaka Murakami – 1B
- Tommy Pham – DH
- Brenton Doyle – CF
- Kyle Teel – C
- Braden Montgomery – RF
- Colson Montgomery – SS
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