What to expect as Cubs-Sox clash at Wrigley Field – NBC Chicago

Tuesday night marks the start of a beloved Chicago baseball tradition: the annual Crosstown Classic, where the White Sox will face off against the Cubs, this time at Wrigley Field, for a two-game series.

The highly anticipated city-to-city match is likely to draw crowds from within and outside friendly confines, with authorities issuing a warning to commuters.

Here’s what you need to know about the game:

When is the Crosstown Classic?

First pitch will be at 7:05 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday at Wrigley Field. Doors open at 5:35 p.m.

What you need to know about the game

The Chicago White Sox hit the road against the Chicago Cubs in an attempt to snap a four-game slide. Tuesday marks the first time the two teams have met this season.

The Cubs are 29-31 overall and 16-13 in home games, while the Sox are 5-24 in road games and 15-45 overall.

“Whatever the record is, it’s the Cubs-Sox record,” NBC Sports Chicago analyst Frank Thomas said. “There’s always been animosity between the two teams. I don’t know why, but it’s been happening for many, many years and the city watches for everyone to play their best baseball normally.”

Likelihood of launch:

White Sox: Chris Flexen (2-5, 5.50 ERA, 1.41 WHIP, 42 strikeouts)

Cubs: Shota Imanaga (5-1, 1.86 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, 59 strikeouts)

Among the best players from both teams are:

Nico Hoerner has two home runs, 23 walks and 16 RBIs while hitting .262 for the Cubs. Cody Bellinger is 14-for-44 with three doubles, a home run and five RBIs over the last 10 games.

Gavin Sheets has 14 doubles, one triple, five home runs and 22 RBIs for the White Sox. Paul DeJong is 6 for 33 with two doubles, two homers and five RBIs over the last 10 games.

But both teams suffer from some injuries:

Cubs: Adbert Alzolay: 60-day IL (forearm), Colten Brewer: 15-day IL (back), Keegan Thompson: 15-day IL (illness), Yency Almonte: 15-day IL (shoulder), Daniel Palencia : 15 -Day IL (shoulder), Jordan Wicks: 15 days IL (forearm), Julian Merryweather: 60 days IL (shoulder), Caleb Kilian: 60 days IL (shoulder)

White Sox: Dominic Fletcher: Everyday (shoulder), Andrew Benintendi: 10-day IL (Achilles), Andrew Vaughn: Everyday (finger), Mike Clevinger: 15-day IL (elbow), Dominic Leone: 15-day IL (elbow) right), Eloy Jimenez: 10-day IL (hamstring), Steven Wilson: 15-day IL (back), Max Stassi: 60-day IL (hip), Yoan Moncada: 60-day IL (abductor), Luis Robert : 10 day IL (hip), Jimmy Lambert: 60 day IL (shoulder), Shane Drohan: 60 day IL (elbow), Matt Foster: 60 day IL (elbow), Jesse Scholtens: 60 day IL (elbow) )

What to expect if you leave

Authorities urged fans to “arrive early” and allow extra time for security checks.

They also reminded fans to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity.

“If you notice anything suspicious, notify on-site security or call 9-1-1,” the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications said.

Get there

Street Closures and Restrictions

Streets could be closed in the neighborhood “to ensure public safety,” officials warned.

Anyone traveling to the area should prepare for heavy traffic and congestion around the stadium.

Officials urged fans to use public transportation, with the CTA providing additional service on game days.

Car park

“Parking restrictions will be strictly enforced. If your vehicle is towed, call 3-1-1 City Services for assistance locating your vehicle,” OEMC said in a statement.

Authorities urged drivers to check all signs before parking.

There is a remote field available with shuttle service to the ballpark.

Carpooling

Fans using rideshares or taxis can be dropped off and picked up at the following locations:

· Irving Park Road (from Clark Street to Seminary Avenue)

· Northbound Halsted, south of Bradley Place

· Southbound Halsted, south of Brompton Avenue

· Westbound from Addison Southport to Lakewood Avenue

· Clark Roscoe southbound to School Street

Weather report

Officials urged fans to prepare and check the weather before leaving as well as any possible delays due to weather.

There is a risk of scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening in the Chicago area, but forecasters noted they could be “hit and miss.” However, rain chances will increase after sunset.

Some developing storms have the potential to become strong or even violent, with the main threats being gusty winds and localized flooding.