Why Cubs fans are making an exception to root for the White Sox

Their rivalry may run deep, but Chicago Cubs fans have one good reason to root for the White Sox on Wednesday as they battle the Cardinals.

It’ll definitely make Cubs fans feel dirty, but on Wednesday, they have incentive to make an exception and root for the White Sox just this once.

The lead in the NL Central is on the line.

While they are gearing up to play the bottom-dwelling Pirates, their neighbors are set to finish their series with the St. Louis Cardinals.

A win for the White Sox would put the Cubs tied for first place. If the latter get a win over Pittsburgh, they’ll own the top spot outright.

The Cubs and White Sox could lead their divisions by Wednesday night

The Cardinals are 26-22, but they’ve lost seven of their last 10 games. Two of those losses have come at the hands of the White Sox. Another two were courtesy of the Cubs, who have won seven of the last 10.

The White Sox rebounded from an embarrassing sweep by the Yankees to take their frustrations out on St. Louis. They need one win to grab a sweep of their own.

Since the Sox are 1.5 games ahead of the Indians in the AL Central, they’re definitely gunning for a win, even if it helps their rivals.

Carlos Rodon is on the mound for the White Sox, looking for his sixth win of the season. He’s going against John Gant of the Cardinals.

One Chicago team may be watching the other closely on Wednesday, but it’s still important for the Cubs to stay focused on the Pirates. This whole “rooting for the White Sox” thing only really works out if they take care of business.

Trevor Williams will start for the Cubs against Pittsburgh.