MLB Game Preview: St. Louis Cardinals (37-35) vs. Chicago White Sox (23-49)

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The St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago White Sox face off in a three-game series opener at Guaranteed Rate Field in Chicago, Illinois. The Cardinals aim to bounce back after a tough stretch, while the White Sox look to snap their five-game losing streak and gain momentum at home.

Game Details

  • Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
  • Time: 7:40 PM ET
  • Venue: Guaranteed Rate Field, Chicago, IL
  • TV Broadcast: Bally Sports Midwest, NBC Sports Chicago

St. Louis Cardinals Outlook

The Cardinals (37-35) have struggled recently, posting a 4-8 record over their last 12 games. Despite their slump, Nolan Arenado has been a key contributor, batting .243 with 11 doubles, eight home runs, and 36 RBIs. Brendan Donovan leads the team with a .313 batting average, while Willson Contreras has been a power threat, hitting nine home runs with 45 RBIs.

St. Louis will send Matthew Liberatore (3-6, 4.17 ERA) to the mound. Liberatore is looking to snap a three-start losing streak, after allowing five earned runs in five innings against Toronto in his last outing.

Chicago White Sox Outlook

The White Sox (23-49) have struggled all season, ranking last in the American League. Miguel Vargas leads the team with 10 home runs and 31 RBIs, while Chase Meidroth has been a bright spot, batting .282 with five doubles and two home runs.

Chicago will counter with rookie Shane Smith (3-3, 2.37 ERA), who has been impressive, ranking third in MLB among qualified rookie pitchers in ERA and strikeouts. Smith picked up a win against Houston on June 10, allowing just one run over six innings.

Key Matchups to Watch

  • Nolan Arenado vs. White Sox Pitching – Arenado is riding a six-game hitting streak, batting .333 with a double, a home run, and five RBIs in his last 10 games.
  • Shane Smith vs. Cardinals’ Offense – Smith’s ability to limit runs will be crucial for Chicago.
  • Miguel Vargas vs. Cardinals’ Bullpen – Vargas has a five-game hitting streak, batting .350 with three doubles, a triple, and a home run.

St. Louis enters as the clear favorite, but Chicago’s home-field desperation could make this a competitive battle. Expect a tight game, with the Cardinals’ offensive firepower giving them the edge late.

Game Odds

St. Louis Cardinals           – 149

Chicago White Sox          8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, June 16, 2025