Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (5/3/22): White Sox 3, Cubs 1 – Cubs Bats Stay Cold at Chilly Wrigley

The Cubs returned home on Tuesday for a game with the crosstown ‘rival’ White Sox at a rainy Wrigley Field. Unfortunately, the home team’s offense looked as ugly as the weather in another tough loss.

Reliever Scott Effross opened the game after scheduled starter Drew Smyly went on the bereavement list. The White Sox rallied in the 2nd inning thanks to a throwing error from Cubs third baseman Patrick Wisdom. A Jake Burger infield single and squeeze bunt by Reese McGuire put the road team ahead by two runs.

Keegan Thompson, who took over in the 2nd, allowed a solo home run to Tim Anderson in the 3rd inning. Sox starter Michael Kopech kept the Cubs off the board but Nico Hoerner hit a run-scoring double down the third-base line against Jose Ruiz in the 6th.

That was the last time David Ross‘ team threatened and the Cubs went down to a 3-1 defeat. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

The offense failed yet again to come through despite having some opportunities with runners on base. Even though the White Sox squandered their own opportunities to build their lead they were able to win with just three runs.

Key Moment

Seiya Suzuki came to the plate with men at first and second and one out in the 3rd. Suzuki smashed a line drive to first base that José Abreu turned into a double play to end the inning.

Stats That Matter

• Other than the home run, Thompson was excellent again Tuesday: 3.2 IP, 1 R, 4 H, 0 K, and 0 BB.
• Michael Rucker had two scoreless innings of relief in the game.
• Alfonso Rivas drew a walk after a terrific 14-pitch at-bat in the 3rd.

Bottom Line

This season is going to be largely about finding out what assets the Cubs have on their current roster. It’s starting to look like players such as Wisdom, Frank Schwindel, and Rafael Ortega are not going to be serviceable major-league players. The team should not wait too much longer before giving chances to younger options from within the system.

On Deck

Cubs look to split the series Wednesday at 6:40pm CT. Kyle Hendricks takes on Lucas Giolito with a broadcast on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.