Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/10/23): White Sox 4, Cubs 3 – Streak Snapped at 9

The White Sox were at Sloan Park Friday to battle Cubs in a cross-town exhibition in which the home team had a chance to push its win streak to double digits. The North Siders’ bats went quiet most of the day before a fake rally fell short and they suffered a rare defeat.

Drew Smyly got the start for the Cubs and was able to keep the Sox off the board despite some traffic on the bases. Eric Hosmer gave the home team a lead when knocked in Ian Happ on a single against Lucas Giolito in the 3rd inning.

Ryan Borucki took over for Smyly and allowed a go-ahead two-run home run to Bryan Ramos in the 5th inning. The Sox added two insurance tallies in the late innings and the Cubs collected four hits to score twice in the bottom of the 9th, but a double play ended their hopes. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

They had 11 hits, but none went for extra bases. A lot more things have to go right to score only with singles.

Stats That Matter

• After working on improving his fastball and cutter in his first two outings, Smyly brought his curve back and looked better better: 4 IP, 0 R, 4 H, 2 K, and 0 BB.
• Hosmer had two hits, though neither was hit particularly hard.
• Caleb Kilian gave up a solo homer in two innings of work.
• Sergio Alcántara picked up a pair of knocks as he stays red-hot.

Bottom Line

Well, the Cubs’ winning streak had to end sometime. Even though the games don’t count, this team definitely looks like it has more talent than it did in 2022. That reality is more important than any win-loss record.

On Deck

The Cubs head to Camelback Ranch for a matchup with the Dodgers Saturday at 2:05pm CT. Hayden Wesneski and Noah Syndergaard will start for their respective teams and Marquee has the broadcast.