The Cubs and White Sox both won Monday in close low-scoring ball games that had few hits and strong pitching. It was a good day for Chicago baseball that have had few good days this year, as the teams have been sub-par. The way in which both won was more impressive however and must of had all on the edges of their seats. Especially in game 2 of a double-header that saw a shutout as well as another more rare pitching feat.

In Chicago, the Cubs began a series against the Reds who came into the game 69-71. In the end, they would add a loss to their record as the Cubs prevailed 4-3 at Wrigley. The Reds tried coming back late, scoring 2 runs in the games final 3 innings, but to no avail. A big 3 run inning by the Cubs in the bottom of the 5^th proved to be enough to slip by. In all the Cubs got 7 hits to produce their 4 runs. The starting pitching was wonderful for Chicago giving up just one early first inning run to the Reds. Matt Garza settled in though and was able to record his 8^th win of the year, which moved the Cubs to 61-80 on the year. Carlos Marmol came on late to close the game out and get his 32^nd save of the year.

The Reds moved to 69-72 with the loss and are just 32-38 away from Cincinnati this season. In the game they got just 6 hits. After getting an early 1-o lead in the first they sputtered out and the Cubs were able to take a 4-3 lead after a 3-run 5^th inning. The Reds added a run in each the 7^th and 8^th innings, but were down a run in the 9^th when Marmol came in and closed the door. The loss was awarded to Red’s pitcher Dontrelle Willis. Willis, who came into the league a star years ago is now 0-5 this season after trying to make a comeback. His pitching has been OK, but he has not gotten a lot of help from his offense.

Meanwhile, the White Sox were in Minnesota also beginning a new series against the Twins. On Monday they kicked off with a double header. In game one they came away with a 2-1 victory thanks to 7 scoreless innings from Phillip Humber. Humber got his 9^th win and Chris Sale came on late to get his 6^th save. In all the Sox got 7 hits, but struck early against Willis getting a run across in both the 2^nd and 3^rd inning. The Sox are now 38-32 away from Chicago, and have played better away. At home they have just 31 victories.

 The Twins have fallen off a ways this year as they are just 58-82 this season with the loss. They were held scoreless until the 9^th inning when they were able to get a run across and threatened to try and get the game into extras. In the end, however, Sale, had enough to close the door and get the Win. Twins pitcher Anthony Swarzak was handed the loss, which moved his record to 3-6 this season.

In game two there is not much to write about besides a 4-0 shutout and one hitter by Sox pitcher Zach Stewart.