Can Chicago’s Baseball Rivals Embrace Mutual Support?

In Cleveland, the White Sox recently split the season series with the Cubs, a feat that many viewed as beneficial to the city. Pitcher Erick Fedde humorously suggested, “Maybe us going 3-3 helped Chicago not burn down.” This highlights the fierce Cubs-Sox rivalry, famous for intense competition and historical significance.

Currently, the White Sox are making a push in the American League Division Series, aiming for a World Series appearance, their first since 2005. Meanwhile, the Cubs’ season has ended. The question arises: will Cubs fans support the Sox, or stay loyal to their team?

Fedde expressed openness to Sox support, saying, “You can cheer for whoever you want. But having loyalty for your club is a good thing.” Yet, he prefers true Sox fans to fill the stands. The upcoming Game 3 will feature a “Blackout Game,” a recurring theme since 2008, inviting fans to wear the Sox’s primary color.

Brooks Boyer, a key figure in Sox marketing, stated, “The White Sox have a lot of personality and are having a lot of fun competing.” He welcomes fans of all affiliations to support the Sox, viewing the team as “America’s Team” for those whose teams are out. However, he acknowledges the unique dynamics of Chicago fandom.

The Cubs-Sox rivalry dates back to 1906, marked by the underdog Sox’s World Series victory over the Cubs. Tensions between fans have persisted for over a century, yet the current Sox team, lacking superstars but rich in character, presents a new era. Players like Munetaka Murakami, known for his dynamic presence both on and off the field, add to the team’s appeal.

While some Sox players welcome Cubs fans, they do so with conditions. Mike Vasil, a Sox reliever, said, “It’s a big city. We’ll accept any and all fans, but next year for the crosstown, don’t switch up.” Tristan Peters also expressed openness to new fans, acknowledging the deep-seated rivalry between the two fan bases.

Andrew Benintendi of the Sox believes “the more fans the better,” but isn’t concerned if some choose not to support them. Despite Chicago’s reputation as a Cubs town, Sox left fielder Sam Antonacci emphasized shared ownership, saying, “It’s both of ours town.” His experiences at Wrigley Field were positive, despite the usual rivalry.

Antonacci is open to Cubs fans joining the Sox fanbase, provided they “aren’t showing up to the games in Cubs jerseys.” He suggested that if the roles were reversed, he’d support the Cubs from home, not at Wrigley.

Historically, animosity means many Sox fans likely wouldn’t support the Cubs. Memories linger, such as the 2003 incident where a South Side bar celebrated a Cubs loss. Yet, today’s economic challenges may encourage a more inclusive atmosphere. Some North Side bars, like Nisei Lounge and Big John’s, are welcoming Sox fans.

As one employee noted, “Pope Leo would want us to accept all.” With changing times, perhaps mutual support could replace fierce rivalries, acknowledging that at its core, baseball is just a game.