After a rough 2024, the Toronto Blue Jays are getting back on track. The same cannot be said for the Chicago White Sox.
Toronto had two straight playoff seasons before a disastrous 2024. After settling the offseason question of the Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extension, they’re back to their winning ways. The Blue Jays go into Saturday in a wild-card position and within striking distance of the New York Yankees in the AL East. Games against the White Sox are a great opportunity to make up ground.
But the Sox won’t just roll over. They managed to claim the series’ first game on Friday, 7-1, behind a strong bullpen game. They may be the worst team in the AL, but even the worst teams in baseball find a way to pinch a game or two here and there.
The Blue Jays are favored at -220 on the Moneyline on DraftKings Sportsbook. The over/under is set at 8.5 runs. Let’s preview this contest and make a prediction.
White Sox vs. Blue Jays prediction, preview
On paper, this seems like a very unbalanced pitching matchup. José Berríos is pitching quite well for the Toronto Blue Jays this season. While he may not be living up to his contract, he’s still a capable starter who can eat innings and keep games from getting away.
For a moment, Aaron Civale had the distinction of being the biggest name traded this season. Then there was that whole Rafael Devers affair. Now the newest Southsider is trying to stake a permanent claim in their pitching rotation. His first outing went well, allowing only two runs despite 10 baserunners in five innings. But that was a Texas team that has struggled to score all year. Whether or not he can keep that up against a better Blue Jays lineup remains to be seen.
White Sox vs. Blue Jays pick
Total Runs Over 8.5 (-119)
While Berríos has been solid, his underlying numbers are those of an average pitcher. This White Sox offense is forgettable, but they’ve scored four-plus runs in three straight contests. That’s a notable feat for a team trying not to lose 110 games again.
I don’t trust Civale in this one at all. Despite scoring just one run on Friday, they’ve been dangerous all year. With his penchant for giving up hard contact, and Toronto batting in the friendly confines of the Rogers Centre, this one could get ugly. Not what you want when trying to make a good impression with a new team.
I’d be tempted to take Toronto in this one, but -220 is a little rich for my blood. I’ll go with the always dependable over in a contest between two non-aces.
