On Sunday, Chicago Cubs designated hitter Michael Conforto created a memorable moment in the City Series against the Chicago White Sox. It was his first experience playing in the intracity rivalry. Conforto hit a game-tying, three-run home run in the ninth inning at Rate Field, sparking excitement among fans. It felt like a playoff atmosphere,
Conforto said after the Cubs’ 9-8 defeat in the series finale. My first time in this rivalry, so it was pretty cool, and definitely, that moment, it felt big. It felt like the boys were fighting all the way down to our last outs and making sure we keep the pressure on them and to come through in that spot was big.
The home run pushed the game into extra innings, with the Cubs gaining a brief lead in the top of the tenth. However, Edgar Quero from the White Sox hit a decisive two-run home run off Cubs left-hander Ryan Rolison, securing the win for the White Sox.
The sight of Conforto’s three-run blast seemed poised to cap off an energetic weekend for the Cubs. Despite this, it emerged as the highlight of a missed opportunity. Cubs right-hander Colin Rea had been maintaining control over the White Sox lineup until two outs into the fifth inning. White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas hit a challenging line drive to center field, presenting Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong with a daunting task. He leapt against the wall attempting the catch, but the ball slipped past, resulting in a double and tying the game. Statcast noted that the ball had a sub-10% catch probability and would have been a home run in 14 MLB parks. I missed the ball. Didn’t watch the replay, but I missed the ball,
Crow-Armstrong admitted.
After missing the catch, Crow-Armstrong briefly sat on the ground processing his error. During this moment, a fan in the patio section critiqued him, prompting a response from the 24-year-old. Some lady just decided to start talking s—, and I felt the need to say it back,
he shared.
The White Sox capitalized on their two-out situations, scoring six runs, which hindered the Cubs’ chances of securing the final out. Another pivotal moment came in the eighth inning when White Sox player Tristan Peters hit his first career home run, a three-run shot off Cubs reliever Phil Maton. Maton’s performance increased his ERA to 9.49 across 12 1/3 innings in 14 games this season. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed confidence in Maton, stating, We’re counting on Phil, and we’re going to need to pitch him in big spots.
Despite the loss, the Cubs showed resilience, challenging White Sox closer Seranthony Domínguez in the ninth inning. Conforto’s impactful home run, a 98 mph sinker to center field, demonstrated his contribution to the team. Although not the decisive moment, Conforto’s performance highlighted his value to the Cubs’ lineup. Signed to a minor-league deal before the season, Conforto’s current batting average stands at .345 with a 1.111 OPS. With rookie Moisés Ballesteros struggling in May, Conforto has become an essential asset for the Cubs.
Looking ahead, the Cubs will face the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field in a three-game series starting Monday.
In roster news, the Cubs made several changes before Sunday’s finale. Left-hander Ty Blach’s contract was selected, with right-hander Javier Assad optioned to Triple-A Iowa to be prepared as a starter. Hunter Harvey was moved to the 60-day injured list to free up a roster spot for Blach. Additionally, the Cubs claimed right-hander Christian Roa off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles, optioning him to Triple-A Iowa. Riley Martin was transferred to the 60-day injured list as part of the corresponding moves.
Andy Martinez serves as a freelance reporter for the Chicago Tribune.