Crosstown Classic Game 1

Friday's series opener between the Cubs and Sox seemed to be less hyped than it has been in previous years. This is most likely due to the success of the Blackhawks, who haven't been competitive since interleague play took effect in 1997. Friday's lack of excitement certainly didn't have anything to do with the fact that the Cubs came in 6 games under .500 and the Sox 7 under. If anything, this series will surely provide the only thing worth bragging about for either team this season.
The Cubs and Sox didn't play each other six times a year until 1999. Since then, the Cubs have a 31-35 record against the White Sox. The Sox have won five season series, the Cubs two, and they have tied four times. Needless to say, as a Cubs fan, it's hard to expect much.
The two big differences in the Sox 10-5 win were starting pitching and extra base hits. White Sox starter Jake Peavy went 7 innings, giving up only six hits and 2 ER. He was especially effective against batters 1-4 in the order, holding them to a combined 2-11, 1 R, and 0 RBI.
The Cubs Randy Wells had a tougher time, he gave up ten hits through five innings and walked three, accounting for five earned runs. The bullpen didn't do much better, combining for another five earned runs, and six hits.
Warm weather and the wind blowing out provided the makings of a high scoring game. The Sox took advantage of the ideal conditions slugging four home runs and four doubles. The Cubs had one of each.
Many fans showed up wearing Blackhawks jerseys or 2010 Stanley Cup Champions T-Shirts. One can only imagine whether they were showing support for the Hawks or embarrased to be seen supporting their baseball team. But one thing's for sure, there will be a few more Cubs fans sporting their Hawks gear tomorrow.