White Sox Fall Flat Again in 3–1 Loss to Marlins Despite Shane Smith’s Strong Start

Smith exited with a 1–0 lead and in line for the win, but ultimately received a no-decision.

Early Lead Disappears into Familiar Frustration

The South Siders scored their lone run in the top of the first thanks to a solo homer off the bat of Andrew Vaughn, who served as the designated hitter on the night. 

From there, the offense did what it does best: disappear.

Chicago managed just three more hits the rest of the way, along with two walks. Only one of those hits went for extra bases—a double from Joshua Palacios in the fourth inning.

With Smith’s struggles the third time through an order, manager Will Venable turned to reliever Steven Wilson to begin the seventh. A sound process as Wilson has been one of the few steady arms in an otherwise struggling bullpen.

But as has often been the case this season, the right process still led to the wrong outcome.

Kyle Stowers tied the game with a solo homer off Wilson. In the eighth, Jordan Leasure struck out two and departed with a runner on second. Brandon Eisert relieved him and after walking pinch hitter Nick Fortes, Eric Wagaman tripled when he lined the first pitch passed a diving Michael A. Taylor, plating both runners to put Miami ahead for good.

News and Notes

After weeks of fans pleading for the promotion of first baseman Tim Elko, the White Sox finally obliged. They made the callup official Saturday morning following reports of the team’s plans and started at first base in his MLB debut. He went 0-for-3.

To make room for Elko, the team designated infielder Nick Maton for assignment.

The Sox also announced that catcher Korey Lee, infielder Gage Workman, and outfielder Mike Tauchman began rehab assignments with Triple-A Charlotte. All three will likely rejoin the big-league club sometime within the next week.

Additionally, the White Sox designated outfielder Greg Jones for assignment and claimed right-handed pitcher Yoendrys Gomez off waivers from the Dodgers.

What’s On Tap Next

The rubber match of the series wraps up Sunday afternoon at Rate Field. The Sox will go for just their third series win of the year, sending right-hander Sean Burke to the mound against the Marlins Sandy Alcantara.

First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. CT and will air on CHSN.