It's time for the Crosstown Classic! The Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox are set to clash on Friday, May 15th at 6:40 PM CT, kicking off a three-game series on the South Side. This isn't just any matchup—it's a chance for both teams to make a statement in the Windy City.

Let's talk about the Cubs' recent scoring struggles. After plating seven runs in the first seven innings against Texas last Friday, they've managed just five runs over the last 47 innings. Ouch. For the season, the Cubs have scored in 120 of 390 innings they've batted—about 31 percent. They've put up one run in 64 innings and multiple runs in 56. On the flip side, their pitching has been stingy, allowing runs in only 97 of 394 innings (under 25 percent), including one run in 53 innings and multiple runs in just 44.

Breaking down the numbers further: The Cubs are averaging exactly five runs per game (220 runs in 44 games) while allowing 4.02 per game (177 runs). Two of their wins have come by a tight 5-4 score—at San Diego on April 19 and at home against the Reds on May 4. Every run counts in this rivalry.

Historically, the Cubs have been strong against American League teams since interleague play began in 1997, boasting a .518 winning percentage in 587 games. Only the Dodgers (.550) and Brewers (.520) have done better. At AL parks, the Cubs are .488, ranking fourth behind the Braves, Dodgers, and Cardinals. This South Side showdown is a chance to boost that record.

One area where the Cubs shine is plate discipline. Their hitters rank second in MLB with an 11.8 percent walk rate, and their 204 walks lead the majors. They're averaging 4.64 walks per game—on pace for 751, which would shatter the franchise record of 656 set in 2016. Patience at the plate could be key against the White Sox pitching.

On the mound for the Cubs is Edward Cabrera, who started the year strong but struggled against the Rangers last Saturday. A bigger concern: Cabrera allowed no home runs in his first four starts (22.2 innings) but has since served up seven homers in his last four starts (23.2 innings). That's a trend he'll want to reverse quickly. He's been better at Wrigley Field (3.60 ERA in five starts) than on the road (4.41 ERA in three starts), but last year he held the White Sox to just one run in five innings at Rate Field.

First pitch is at 6:40 PM CT on Marquee Sports Network. Get your gear ready and tune in for what promises to be an exciting Crosstown Series!