Cubs and White Sox Both Clinch Playoff Berths for First Time on Same Day
The Chicago Cubs and White Sox both secured spots in the Major League Baseball playoffs following victories on Thursday. This marks the first time in history both teams have clinched playoff berths on the same day.
Historical Context
The Cubs and White Sox have previously shared playoff appearances in the 2020 season (shortened due to COVID-19) and in 2008 and 1906 when they met in the World Series.
2020 Playoff Losses
In 2020, both teams lost in the best-of-three wild-card round: the Cubs fell to the Marlins 2-0, while the White Sox lost to the Oakland A’s 2-1.
2008 Playoff Losses
In 2008, the Cubs lost to the Dodgers 3-0 in the best-of-five Division Series, and the White Sox lost to the Rays 3-1.
1906 World Series Victory
The White Sox defeated the Cubs 4-2 in the 1906 World Series.
Playoff Home Games
The location of playoff games for both teams remains uncertain and will be determined by their seeding. The Cubs have a chance to secure home-field advantage in the Wild Card Series through regular-season tiebreakers. The White Sox could earn home games if they win the American League Central.
Potential Red Line Doubleheader
A Red Line/cross-town doubleheader, where both teams play at home on the same day, is possible for fans utilizing the L train between Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field. However, this won’t occur in the wild-card round.
World Series Titles
Both teams have won three World Series championships: the White Sox in 1906, 1917, and 2005, and the Cubs in 1907, 1908, and 2016.
White Sox Recent Performance
The White Sox have struggled recently, losing more than 100 games from 2023 to 2025.