What happens when a stoppable force meets a moveable object? That’s the question on everyone’s mind when the White Sox visit the Rockies. Colorado, 20-68, enters tonight on pace for one of the worst seasons in baseball history. Chicago isn’t too far behind at 29-59. In this battle between cellar dwellers, which side will earn a rare victory? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Saturday’s contest between the White Sox and Rockies
The Rockies are favorites (-119) over the White Sox, with the over/under set at 11 runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s inter-league matchup.
White Sox vs. Rockies prediction, preview
The Rockies are on an awful pace, but the White Sox are fresh off of a historically bad 41-win 2024 campaign. Fortunately for the South Siders, they’ve shown improvement this season. That’s especially true on the mound; Chicago has only given up 4.39 runs per game, 20th in baseball. Pitcher Jonathan Cannon has been solid this season, notching a 4.59 ERA over 13 appearances. He’ll get to face arguably the worst lineup on Earth in Colorado. Granted, the Rockies have the benefit of playing at hitter-friendly Coors Field. Still, this group is averaging the fourth-fewest runs per game in baseball (4.09).
While Cannon isn’t a scrub, he’s also far from a sure thing. That’s especially true away from Chicago. This season, the right-hander has generated a lackluster 5.16 ERA on the road. Over his last three outings, Cannon has coughed up 11 earned runs (8.49 ERA). Although Colorado’s bats are unimpressive, the Coors effect does make a difference. The Rockies have accounted for a .749 OPS at home, the league’s 11th-best mark.
Unlike Cannon, Colorado’s hurler has found a way to manage the effects of playing at high altitude. German Marquez has been a shell of his former All-Star self. Through 83.1 innings of work this season, the veteran has posted a 5.62 ERA. However, that number has gone down to 4.32 when throwing at Coors Field. In addition, Marquez has tallied four straight starts allowing two runs or less. The White Sox have produced baseball’s lowest batting average (.215) and OPS (.624) against right-handed pitching.
White Sox vs. Rockies pick, best bet
Best Bet: Rockies ML (-119)
For perhaps the last time all season, the Rockies will be favored to win a game. When looking over the numbers, it makes sense. Chicago might be more competitive this year, but these are still two of the worst squads in recent memory. With two evenly-matched train wrecks on the diamond, I’m leaning towards Colorado and the more proven arm in Marquez.
