Chicago White Sox won’t stay down after Pirates gut punch

The Chicago White Sox were knocked down by the Pirates Pirates, getting swept over their three-game series. But with the playoffs in sight, the franchise plans to get right back up.

Heading into Friday’s games, the White Sox still hold a 1.5 game lead in the AL Central with their 75-71 record. Chicago has a bit of a buffer, but the Cleveland Guardians are right on their tail, and the Wild Card race is just as heated.

As the White Sox prepare for their series against the St. Louis Cardinals, they must find their footing in a hurry. If not, their once safe playoff standing could dissipate.

But everyone on the South Side is well aware of the circumstances. No one on the White Sox is laying their sword down. Chicago is prepared to fight back.

Chicago White Sox prepared to fight for playoff spot

On Thursday, the White Sox dropped a close one 2-0. Erick Fedde followed starter Hagen Smith, allowing four hits and two runs over his 5.1 innings pitched. While he isn’t happy with the loss, the right-hander viewed Chicago’s sweep as a potential wake up call, via Zach Sweet of MLB.com.

“Sometimes, a punch in the face is needed to get going,” Fedde said. “We’re still in a good spot in the division. Obviously, [we’re] making it a little harder on ourselves, but it’s a good wake-up call. Teams aren’t going to roll over for us. It’s time to dig our cleats in and get the job done.”

Manager Will Venable is in the same boat. He knows getting swept is a bad look for the franchise and not indicative of a true playoff contender. But he also understands just how far the White Sox have come this season. The franchise isn’t waiving their white flag anytime soon.

“We all understand the situation,” Venable said. “You never want to get swept, and certainly not here down the stretch. At the same time, I think our clubhouse and our vibe inside there is in a really good spot.”

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