Fans at Rate Field were left waiting on Thursday evening as the much-anticipated series opener between the Cleveland Guardians and the Chicago White Sox was washed out due to persistent rain. The inclement weather forced the postponement of the game originally scheduled for 7:40 p.m. EST, disrupting the start of what promised to be an intriguing matchup between these two American League Central rivals.
However, the baseball action is set to resume in full force on Friday, July 11, 2025, with a split doubleheader designed to make up for the lost contest. The first game is slated to begin at 3:10 p.m. ET, followed by the second game at 8:10 p.m. ET, giving fans a full day of baseball excitement. This rescheduling aligns with the teams’ efforts to keep the series on track amid the unpredictable Midwest summer weather.
The Guardians, currently holding a 43-48 record, are coming off a notable high point in their season—a dominant three-game sweep of the AL West-leading Houston Astros. This impressive feat follows a challenging stretch in which Cleveland endured a grueling 10-game losing streak, during which they were shut out five times. The team has shown resilience in July, posting a 3-6 record as they strive to regain consistency and climb back toward playoff contention.
For the Guardians, the pitching assignments for Friday’s doubleheader have been announced. Left-hander Logan Allen will take the mound for the first game, while Gavin Williams, who holds a 5-4 record with a 3.61 ERA, is slated to start the nightcap. Both pitchers will be tasked with setting the tone for their club as they look to build momentum in a season that has seen its share of ups and downs.
On the other side, the Chicago White Sox enter the doubleheader with a record of 31-62, reflecting a challenging season marked by more losses than wins. Despite this, the White Sox managed to prevent a three-game sweep at the hands of the AL East-leading Toronto Blue Jays with a narrow 2-1 victory on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. This win provided a glimmer of hope for the struggling squad as they face the Guardians in what could be a pivotal weekend.
Chicago’s pitching staff will feature Shane Smith (3-7, 4.20 ERA) in Game 1, followed by Jonathan Cannon taking the mound in Game 2. Smith’s role in the opener is crucial as the White Sox aim to gain an early advantage in the doubleheader, while Cannon will look to continue the fight in the evening contest. The pitching matchups will be critical in a series where every game counts for both teams looking to improve their standings.
Adding to the day’s significance, the White Sox will honor one of their legendary figures by unveiling a statue of former pitcher Mark Buehrle on the Rate Field concourse prior to the start of Game 2. Buehrle, remembered fondly by fans for his remarkable career and contributions to the franchise, will be immortalized in a ceremony that promises to be a highlight for the home crowd.
Fans eager to catch the doubleheader won’t have to miss a moment, as CLEGuardians.TV will televise both games, offering comprehensive coverage of the action. Radio broadcasts will be available on WTAM, although WMMS will not carry the first game. This media coverage ensures that supporters from both cities can stay connected to the unfolding drama on the diamond.
The Guardians have experience with doubleheaders this season, having split a pair earlier in the year. This familiarity could serve them well as they navigate the physical and mental demands of playing two games in one day. Meanwhile, the White Sox, known for their resilience, will be looking to capitalize on home-field advantage and the energy of the Rate Field crowd.
As the Guardians and White Sox prepare to resume their battle, the stakes remain high. Cleveland is eager to build on their recent success and shake off the remnants of their losing streak, while Chicago seeks to find a rhythm and claw their way out of the cellar. The split doubleheader on Friday will provide a critical test for both teams, offering a chance to shift momentum and gain valuable ground in the AL Central race.
With weather delays behind them and a full day of baseball ahead, the Guardians and White Sox are set to deliver an exciting day of Major League Baseball. Fans will be watching closely to see which team can seize the opportunity and make a statement as the season marches on.
