Chicago – The White Sox are poised to finish a historic postseason run on their home turf. After taking a 2-0 lead over the Cleveland Guardians in the best‑of‑five AL Division Series, the South Siders will host Game 3 at Rate Field on Wednesday, looking to advance to the American League Championship Series for the first time since 2005.
Home‑field advantage and a blackout theme
It will be the first home playoff game for Chicago since the 2021 postseason. The club is encouraging fans to wear black as part of a blackout theme, a nod to the team’s improved home record this season. Chicago posted a 48‑33 mark at Rate Field, a dramatic turnaround from the 33‑48 record at the same venue in 2025.
Pitching matchup
Both clubs will start with openers. Left‑hander Sean Newcomb will take the mound for the White Sox, while right‑hander Daniel Espino, making his first career playoff appearance, will start for the Guardians. Newcomb delivered two scoreless innings in Game 2’s 4‑3 win, and Espino, a 25‑year‑old prospect who overcame shoulder injuries, expressed confidence in his preparation for the moment.
Bullpen reliance pays off
The White Sox have leaned heavily on their relievers throughout the playoffs. According to Stats Perform, they are the only MLB team in the modern era to have their bullpen pitch five or more innings, strike out five or more batters, and earn the win in four consecutive games, whether in the regular season or postseason. Reliever Bryan Hudson said the upcoming game “will be electric” and promised an “awesome” atmosphere for the fans.
Guardians’ perspective
Guardians third baseman José Ramírez emphasized the urgency of the series, stating, “We’ve got to win another game because we don’t have the luxury to lose another one.” Manager Stephen Vogt noted the team’s comfort playing in loud, hostile environments, recalling past postseason experiences and the advantage of a road‑heavy schedule—Cleveland posted a 44‑37 road record versus a 41‑40 home record this season.
What’s at stake
If Cleveland avoids elimination in Game 3, the series will shift back to Chicago for a decisive Game 4 on Thursday, with the possibility of a Game 5 if needed. The White Sox’s strong home performance and creative use of the bullpen give them a clear edge, but the Guardians’ experience in the playoffs for three straight years makes them a formidable opponent.
Looking ahead
Chicago fans can expect a high‑energy contest as the White Sox aim to end a 120‑year drought without a home postseason series win—the last being the 1906 World Series victory over the Cubs. With the team’s recent turnaround and a supportive fan base, the stage is set for a memorable showdown that could propel the South Siders back into the league’s elite.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
