The Cleveland Guardians (63-55) host the Chicago White Sox (61-58) in a crucial AL Central matchup, with just 2.5 games separating the division's top three teams. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 pm ET at Progressive Field.

The White Sox enter having lost two straight, including a 21-5 blowout loss to Houston. Meanwhile, the Guardians split their recent series with Detroit and had Thursday off. Cleveland holds a 31-24 home record this season.

Betting Odds:

• Guardians: -132 (favorites)
• White Sox: +112
• Run line: Chicago +1.5 (-188)
• Over/Under: 7.5 runs

Pitching Matchup:

• White Sox: Lance Lynn (3-5, 5.62 ERA, 1.25 WHIP)
• Guardians: Triston McKenzie (8-9, 3.14 ERA, 0.97 WHIP)

Key Players to Watch:

• White Sox: Jose Abreu (.306/.381/.463, 14 HR, 66 runs)
• Guardians: Jose Ramirez (.281/.351/.534, 22 HR, 98 RBI)
• Notable: Ramirez hits .348 with 3 HR against Lynn historically

Analysis: The Guardians enter as the division's hottest team, winning 7 of their last 10. While Lynn has struggled overall this season, he's shown improvement lately with two wins in his last three starts. McKenzie's strong pitching and Cleveland's home-field advantage make them slight favorites in this crucial divisional matchup.

The outcome of this game could significantly impact the tight AL Central race, with upcoming matchups against Johnny Cueto and Dylan Cease making this opener particularly important for Cleveland.

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