2012 Cubs Lineup: Dale Sveum Considering Some Changes

Following the Chicago Cubs' 6-0 defeat at the hands of the White Sox on Sunday, Dale Sveum said he might need to shake up the Cubs' lineup in the hopes of sparking the team's struggling offense.

‘‘I might think about changing things at the top of the order,’’ Sveum said after the Cubs’ 6-0 loss Sunday to Jake Peavy and the White Sox on a warm, breezy day ideal for hitting. ‘‘Not that anybody’s doing anything wrong, just to change something. Because we ain’t producing any runs that way, so we might change things up there.’’

Related: White Sox Vs. Cubs Score Update: White Sox Sweep Cubs

The Cubs scored a total of six runs in three games against the White Sox.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

Jake Peavy Wants To Stay In Chicago For As Long As The White Sox Will Have Him

Jake Peavy is in the midst of his best season with the Chicago White Sox, but he knows that his future with the franchise may depend on whether or not the team contends this year. Peavy could end up on the trading block this summer, and if he doesn't, the team will have to decide whether or not to pick up his hefty $22 million option for 2013.

Related: White Sox Vs. Cubs Score Update: White Sox Sweep Cubs

After his successful start against the Cubs on Sunday, Peavy expressed his desire to stay with the White Sox well into the future.

"I love being here, and this is the place I want to play," Peavy said after throwing 6 1/3 shutout innings against the Cubs on Sunday. "If I had it my way, this is where I'd play until I couldn't play no more. I love it, I love Robin and his staff, and I love my teammates. We'll see what happens. I certainly understand the game. I want to play in Chicago, that's for sure."

Peavy and the White Sox beat the Cubs 6-0 on Sunday.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Score Update: White Sox Sweep Cubs

A dominant pitching performance from Jay Peavy was all the Chicago White Sox needed to complete a sweep of the rival Chicago Cubs. Peavy pitched 6.1 shutout innings to help lead the White Sox to a comfortable 6-0 win at Wrigley Field.

With the win, Peavy improved his record to 5-1 this season. He struck out seven batters and allowed just three hits in a truly impressive effort. The White Sox offense gave Peavy strong run support, with three different guys hitting home runs. Adam Dunn continued his strong play with his 14th homer of the season, while Gordon Beckham and Tyler Flowers also hit home runs.

The Cubs struggled to generate consistent offense in the loss, recording just five hits. Paul Maholm saw his record fall to 4-3 after allowing five earned runs in 6.1 innings pitched.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Score Update: Dunn, Beckham Go Back-To-Back, Sox Lead 2-0

The Chicago White Sox are leading 2-0 over the Chicago Cubs through four innings of play on Sunday afternoon at Wrigley Field. The game was scoreless after three frames, but the Pale Hose have gone ahead thanks to a pair of fourth-inning home runs.

Cubs starter Paul Maholm was doing well early, but he made a couple of mistakes in the fourth inning that proved to be costly. Gordon Beckham and Adam Dunn took advantage of those errors, smacking back-to-back bombs in the fourth inning to give the Sox the advantage.

Dunn's homer, an absolute bomb that nearly left Wrigley Field, was his 14th of the season, tying him for second in the American League with Baltimore's Adam Jones. Beckham continues to have a strong series against the Cubs, as he's now 4-for-11 with two homers.

Jake Peavy has pitched well for the White Sox so far on Sunday, allowing just two hits and zero walks over four scoreless innings of work. The Cubs managed to load the bases in the bottom of the fourth, but Peavy got Adrian Cardenas to pop out and end the inning. Bryan LaHair is 1-for-1 with a walk today to lead the Cubs' offense.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Roster 2012: Orlando Hudson Could Join Team By Tuesday

After signing with the team over the weekend, infielder Orlando Hudson could join the White Sox as soon as Tuesday. Manager Robin Ventura spoke with Scott Merkin of MLB.com recently, also clarifying Hudson's potential role with the team going forward.

Robin said Hudson could be in Chicago Tuesday. Would back up Beckham at second and play some third if\when Morel goes on DL

— Scott Merkin (@scottmerkin) May 20, 2012

Hudson was released by the San Diego Padres last Thursday after a rough start to the season. The 34-year-old was once considered one of the better second basemen in all of baseball, but he's declined badly as a hitter in his mid-30's. An above-average hitter during his prime, Hudson has hit .252/.325/.358 since the beginning of the 2010 season.

For updates and perspective on the Chicago White Sox, head on over to South Side Sox or stop by SB Nation Chicago.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Lineups: Stars Out In Rubber Match

With a series victory hanging in the balance, neither Chicago Cubs skipper Dale Sveum nor Chicago White Sox manager Robin Ventura are taking any chances with their line ups on Sunday. The lone exception is White Sox DH Paul Konerko, who is expected to miss a few games with an eye injury, and catcher A.J. Pierzynski, who is getting a well deserved day off.

Here are the line ups for both teams on Sunday:

Chicago White Sox

1. Alejandro De Aza, CF
2. Gordon Beckham, 2B
3. Adam Dunn, 1B
4. Dayan Viciedo, LF
5. Alexei Ramirez, SS
6. Kosuke Fukudome, RF
7. Tyler Flowers, C
8. Brent Lillibridge, 3B
9. Jake Peavy, P

Chicago Cubs

1. David DeJesus, RF
2. Tony Campana, CF
3. Starlin Castro, SS
4. Bryan LaHair, 1B
5. Alfonso Soriano, LF
6. Ian Stewart, RF
7. Adrian Cardenas, 2B
8. Koyie Hill, C
   
9. Paul Maholm, P

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Preview: Peavy, Maholm Battle In Rubber Match

The first series of the year between the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Cubs started with Kerry Wood's retirement, and it will end with one team going home with a series victory. After the White Sox beat the Cubs 7-4 on Saturday, the series remains tied at one as the teams enter Sunday's rubber match in Wrigley.

Taking the mound for the Cubs will be Paul Maholm, who has been stellar in his last five starts after a rough start to the 2012 season. In those five starts, Maholm has allowed only seven earned runs in 31.1 innings pitched, which has helped his ERA stabilize at 4.35 after spending the early part of the season in the teens.

The White Sox will counter with Jake Peavy, who was rocked in his last start vs. the Detroit Tigers not long after being named the AL Pitcher of the Month for April. In Peavy's shortest outing of the year, he gave up six earned runs in just 5.1 innings pitched, and the two homers he allowed equalled his season total coming in to the game.

Game date/time: Sunday, May 20, 1:20 p.m. CT

Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Ill.

TV: WGN, CSN

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Final Score: Cubs Rally Late, But Sox Homers Lead To 7-4 South Side Win

The Chicago White Sox (20-21) edged one game closer to .500 after they powered their way past Ryan Dempster (L, 0-2) and the Chicago Cubs (15-25).

Dempster pitched the first 6.0 innings for the Cubs, but allowed a pair of homers to LF Dayan Viciedo and C A.J. Pierzynski. Dempster departed with the Cubs trailing 4-0. Meanwhile, SP John Danks (3-4) pitched 6.1 innings with 4 strikeouts and 1 walk and kept the Cubs off the scoreboard to earn his third win of the season.

In the top of the 8th inning, 1B Adam Dunn popped his 13th homer of the season, to give the Sox a 5-0 advantage. A shaky outing from LHP James Russell and an error from 3B Joe Mather plated another two runs for the Sox. The Cubs added four runs in the bottom of the 9th inning with two outs, as LF Alfonso Soriano and Mather each cranked two-run homers, but the Sox closed the door and finished with a 7-4 win.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs: Reliever Blake Parker Leaves With Injury

The Chicago Cubs may have another player headed to their ever-growing disabled list. In the top of the eighth inning of Saturday night's game, RP Blake Parker struck out UTIL Brent Lillibridge but then fell down 3-0 to CF Alejandro De Aza, prompting a visit from the training staff.

Unfortunately for Parker and for the Cubs, he could not finish the at bat:

#Cubs athletic trainer out to look at Blake Parker after he threw 3 straight balls. He came off mound awkwardly. Parker now leaving

— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) May 20, 2012

The Cubs currently have three players on the disabled list, including two catchers. Parker was making his second career appearance.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

Paul Konerko Injury Update: White Sox Slugger Could Be Available By Tuesday

The Chicago White Sox may have their slugging first baseman back soon. According to Chicago Tribune, 1B Paul Konerko is poised for a Tuesday return after Friday's hit-by-pitch in the face:

"Once I knew that what I was seeing was the swelling, not something wrong with my eyeball …" Konerko said. "As soon as I knew that was the case, it really wasn't even that painful. You just know you can't see clearly out of it. It's more frustrating in that sense because at that point everything else feels great. There's nothing wrong with you, it's just kind of you have one eye and you can't play with one eye."

Konerko was hit on Friday by a 2-2 breaking ball from Chicago Cubs SP Jeff Samardzija -- who throws one of the hardest fastballs in the league at 95 mph. Samardzija later said the hit was not intentional.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Score Update: South Side Still Holding 4-0 Lead

The Chicago White Sox (19-21) hold a 4-0 lead heading into eighth inning against the Chicago Cubs (15-24).

With back-to-back homers from LF Dayan Viciedo and C A.J. Pierzynski in the third inning, the White Sox lineup handed SP John Danks a 4-0 lead against a struggling Cubs lineup. The Chicago Cubs entered the game having scored the fifth fewest runs in the MLB, while the Sox sported a near-league-average 3.84 ERA.

Unsurprisingly, Danks stifled the Cubs and limited them to just 2 singles, 1 doubles and 1 walk while striking out 4 Cubs hitters. RP Nate Jones took over for Danks in the bottom of the seventh inning with a runner on first, but induced a ground ball double play from UTIL Jeff Baker to end the inning.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Roster Update: Chicago Signs Orlando Hudson

In an effort to boost a struggling infield, the Chicago White Sox have signed a proven winner. According to ESPNChicago, the White Sox agreed to terms with Orlando Hudson:

The Chicago White Sox have agreed to terms with veteran infielder Orlando Hudson, according to a major league source.

The San Diego Padres released Hudson from his contract on Thursday. Hudson, who signed an two-year, $11.5 million contract with the Padres before the 2011 season, was hitting .211 with one homer and 11 RBIs. Hudson was making $5.5 million this year, with a $2 million buyout for next year.

Hudson started the season with the San Diego Padres but was released earlier this week. Hudson has really struggled in 2012, hitting just .211 and driving in only 11 runs.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Score Update: John Danks Perfect Through 4 Innings As Sox Lead 4-0

The Chicago White Sox have already experienced pitching history this season, with Philip Humber throwing a perfect game earlier this season against the Seattle Mariners. However, the White Sox could be in for another historical night, as they lead 4-0 and John Danks is perfect through four innings against the Cubs.

Dayan Viciedo has provided the majority of the offense for the White Sox, as he has two hits, including a home run, and three RBI's through four innings. A.J. Pierzynski also has hit a home run to help peg the White Sox to the early lead.

Danks, who struggled mightily in his last start, has kept the Cubs lineup on its toes. Danks has been very inconsistent this season, allowing at least four earned runs in five of his starts. However, he seems to have found his command early against the Cubs.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

Brent Morel Injury Update: DL A Possibility For Morel

The back pain for Brent Morel will continue to sideline him, as rookie 3B Eduardo Escobar will get the start again today. According to Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune, the back injury might be enough to send the struggling Morel to the DL:

Morel says DL a possibility, back remains tight

— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) May 19, 2012

Morel has struggled all season at 3B for the White Sox. He is hitting just .177 with five RBI's and no home runs. Morel has just 20 hits in 113 AB's this season. These struggles have been magnified over the past 10 games, with Morel hitting just 4/30. Unfortunately, Escobar hasn't been much better, recording just six hits in 35 AB's this season. The rookie has driven in just one run, but might have the opportunity to show more promise at the plate if Morel is sent to the DL.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

White Sox vs. Cubs Lineup: Konerko Not In Starting Lineup

After being hit with a pitch in the opening game of their series against the Chicago Cubs, Paul Konerko will not be in the starting lineup for the White Sox this evening. Konerko started this series with a bang, hitting a two-run homer in the opening inning to help lead the White Sox to a 3-2 win. However, he was hit with a pitch in the third inning, which gave this series an even higher level of intensity.

Ryan Dempster will be on the mound for the Cubs this evening in search of his first win of the season. Dempster has been outstanding this season, with an ERA of 1.74 in six starts. However, he has not received nearly enough run support. John Danks will start for the White Sox and he will be hoping to bounce back from a disappointing performance in his last start. Danks allowed five earned runs in just three innings pitched in a no-decision against the Detroit Tigers.

De Aza cf Beckham 2b, Dunn 1B, Viciedo LF, Pierzynski C, Rios RF, Ramirez ss, Escobar 3B, Danks

— Daryl Van Schouwen (@CST_soxvan) May 19, 2012

#Cubs lineup vs. @whitesox 5/19: Johnson CF, Barney 2B, Castro SS, LaHair 1B, Soriano LF, Baker RF, Mather 3B, Hill C, Dempster P

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 19, 2012

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

Cubs Roster Update: Chicago Acquires Koyie Hill

With injuries to both Geovany Soto and Welington Castillo, the Chicago Cubs were very limited by their options at the catcher position. In an effort to fill that need, Chicago picked up Koyie Hill from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for cash considerations.

@cubs: #Cubs today acquired C Koyie Hill from the #Reds for a cash consideration. Hill returns to the Cubs wearing #55. He is available tonight.

Hill will make his debut in the starting lineup today against the Chicago White Sox. Hill spent 2007-2011 with the Cubs organization. He had the best year of his career in 2009, when he hit two home runs and drove in 24 RBI's in 83 appearances. Hill has spent the beginning of this season with the Pensacola Blue Wahoos at the Double A level.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

Welington Castillo Injury Update: Cubs Catcher Could Miss A Week

Throughout the first six weeks of the season, not much has gone right for the Chicago Cubs. The team is off to a 15-24 start and has been hampered by injuries. One position that has really been ravaged by injury is catcher, with Geovany Soto sidelined because of a knee injury. According to Doug Padilla at ESPNChicago, Welington Castillo, who replaced Soto at the position, has also been bitten by the injury bug:

@ESPNChiCubs: Cubs catcher woes continue. Now W Castillo with mild MCL sprain. Could miss a week.

Castillo has struggled at the plate in limited appearances this season. He has just five hits in 27 plate appearances. However, he has been better recently, including two multi-hit games in his past four appearances.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

Paul Konerko Injury: First Baseman Will Be Evaluated For Post-Concussion Symptoms

After Paul Konerko hit a first inning home run for the Chicago White Sox on Friday, he was abruptly hit in the head in his next at-bat by Chicago Cubs starter Jeff Samardzija. The Sox would retaliate on Cubs slugger Bryan LaHair, as the beanball war marred the South Siders' 3-2 win the series opener of the crosstown classic.

Related: Paul Konerko Injury: White Sox First Baseman Leaves Game After Hit In Face With Pitch

Konerko would exit the game after the plunking and his status for Saturday's game remains in jeopardy. Konerko was brought to Rush University Medical Center for a CT scan, which revealed nothing aside from a laceration and swelling under his left eye. Before Saturday's game, Konerko will be examined for post-concussion symptoms to determine if he can play.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

White Sox vs. Cubs: Bryan LaHair Didn't Appreciate Retaliation Beanball From South Siders

Paul Konerko kicked off the scoring in the Chicago White Sox 3-2 win over the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on Friday with a solo home run in the first inning. In his next at-bat, Konerko would leave the game after getting hit in the face with a pitch from Cubs starter Jeff Samardzija.

Related: Paul Konerko Injury: White Sox First Baseman Leaves Game After Hit In Face With Pitch

Samardzija rather passionately the beanball wasn't intentional after the game, but the White Sox still exacted a measure of revenge by plunking Cubs slugging Bryan LaHair in his next at-bat.

LaHair didn't appreciate the gesture.

"I definitely felt like it was intentional," LaHair said. "They waited a whole inning, and then the first pitch was right at my head. I'm all right with getting hit. I understand. But you start getting around people's heads, that's kind of dangerous. It could be scary. I didn't get hurt or anything, so just kind of move on from it."

"Konerko gets hit, no matter where he gets hit, there's always going to be some kind of retaliation," he said. "Hit me. Just don't hit me in the head. They didn't. He missed, so it was good for me."

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

Jeff Samardzija Says Beanball That Injured Paul Konerko Wasn't Intentional

The retirement of Kerry Wood ruled the day at Wrigley Field on Friday. Had the Cubs reliever not announced his surprise retirement just hours before the start the crosstown series, Jeff Samardzija's plunking of Paul Konerko would have dominated the newscycle.

Related: Paul Konerko Injury: White Sox First Baseman Leaves Game After Hit In Face With Pitch

Konerko hit his eighth home run of the year in the first inning off Samardzija to give the South Siders a 1-0 lead. In his next at-bat, Samardzija hit Konerko in the face, which caused the Sox first baseman to exit the game.

Samardzija said after the game he did not mean to hit Konerko.

"It's unfortunate. There are a lot of superstars that put up big numbers, get paid a lot of money and Paulie's one of those guys who is a superstar and does it the right way. There's not too many of those guys out there. He's not about show or about himself," Samardzija said.

"Paulie's a good guy and that ball got away and unfortunately hit him up high. If I could take it back, I would. The only thing that makes me OK about it is he's a tough guy. I hope he'll be all right."

Konerko's status for Saturday's game remains up in the air.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Preview: Ryan Dempster Tries Again For 1st Victory

If game two of the crosstown series between the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox carries half as much intrigue as yesterday's series opener, the city will be in for another fun sports day. The South Siders' 3-2 win at Wrigley a day ago was overshadowed by the surprise retirement announcement of Cubs reliever Kerry Wood, who made one final appearance on Friday and struck out White Sox left fielder Dayan Viciedo. That isn't where the intrigue ended. The Cubs and Sox also exchanged beanballs, the first of which hit Paul Konerko in the face and caused the Sox's slugger to exit the game.

Related: Paul Konerko Injury: White Sox First Baseman Leaves Game After Hit In Face With Pitch

On Saturday, each team will send out its Opening Day starter: Ryan Dempster will go for his first win of the season as he opposes John Danks of the White Sox.

Dempster enters 0-1, but with a sparkling 1.74 ERA and .97 WHIP. Danks has struggled mightily in the early season for the Sox. He comes into his ninth start of the year at 2-4 with a 6.46 ERA and 1.61 WHIP.

Game Date & Time: Saturday, May 19, 6:15 p.m.

Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL

TV: Fox

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

2012 Cubs Roster: Travis Wood Replaces Chris Volstad In Rotation

Chris Volstad has been struggling as a starter for the Chicago Cubs in 2012, and now the team has decided to give someone else a shot. Travis Wood has been called up from triple-A Iowa to join the rotation in Volstad's place.

The Cubs finally ran out of patience with Volstad, who’s 0-6 with a 7.46 ERA and hasn’t delivered on the potential they saw when they included him in the Carlos Zambrano trade with the Miami Marlins last winter.

Travis Wood – a centerpiece to the Sean Marshall deal with the Cincinnati Reds – will take Volstad’s spot in the rotation and make his next start Tuesday against the Houston Astros.

Related: White Sox Vs. Cubs Final Score: Home Runs Propel Sox To 3-2 Victory

Wood is 3-3 with a 4.57 ERA for Iowa this season.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage, visit Cubs blog Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Final Score: Home Runs Propel Sox To 3-2 Victory

The Chicago White Sox got home runs from Paul Konerko and Gordon Beckham, Philip Humber was solid on the mound, and the Sox prevailed 3-2 over the Cubs at Wrigley Field on Friday afternoon.

Related: Paul Konerko Injury: White Sox First Baseman Leaves Game After Hit In Face With Pitch

Konerko's two-run shot in the first inning got the White Sox off and running, but the bigger story may be the Jeff Samardzija pitch that hit Konerko in the helmet and face. Konerko suffered a cut above his left eye and was forced to leave the game; the team is currently waiting on test results.

After Beckham's home run gave the White Sox a 3-2 lead in the eighth, Samardzija was relieved by Kerry Wood, who pitched to one last batter before calling it a career. After retiring Dayan Viciedo, Wood left to a huge ovation.

The second game of this series is set to begin at 6:15 p.m. CT on Saturday.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

Paul Konerko Injury Update: White Sox Slugger Back On Bench With Laceration, Swelling

1B Paul Konerko was spotted back in the Chicago White Sox dugout following a scary hit in the face off an errant pitch from SP Jeff Samardzija. According to Phil Rogers of the Chicago Tribune, Konerko is still awaiting test results:

The initial report on Paul Konerko: slight laceration above his left eye, some swelling. He's being tested further and will be re-evaluated. Sounds like he might have gotten out without major trauma.

In the top of the third inning, Konerko got nailed in the forehead and had to be helped off the field with a towel pressed to his face to slow the bleeding. For now, it appears the 36-year-old slugger has avoided any major injuries.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

Paul Konerko Injury: White Sox First Baseman Leaves Game After Hit In Face With Pitch

Guyism.com shares this clip from the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs game on Friday.

Click for animation.

In the top of the third inning, Cubs SP Jeff Samardzija threw an errant 2-2 breaking ball that ricocheted off 1B Paul Konerko's helmet and into his face. Konerko fell to the ground and Samardzija immediately approached the plate in an apparent apologetic gesture. Konerko left the game with a severe cut on his face and is currently undergoing analysis.

LF Dayan Viciedo entered the game in Konerko's place, heading to left field as 1B Adam Dunn takes over at first.

In the bottom of the 4th inning, with slugger 1B Bryan LaHair batting, SP Philip Humber threw a 91 mph fastball over LaHair's head, eliciting a warning for both teams from home plate umpire Tim Timmons.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

Cubs Roster 2012: Chris Volstad Sent Down, Catcher Blake Lalli Called Up

With C Geovany Soto possibly headed to the disabled list, the icago Cubs have called up minor league veteran C Blake Lalli and sent down their No. 4 starter Chris Volstad, according to Doug Padilla of ESPN Chicago:

Volstad optioned to Iowa. Lalli recalled to fill catcher void.

— Doug Padilla (@ESPNChiCubs) May 18, 2012

Volstad has struggled in the 2012 MLB season. His career-low strikeout rate -- 12.6% -- and his unimproved walk rate have led to a bloated 7.46 ERA through eight starts.

Lalli, meanwhile, has spent the previous four season at the Double-A level, hitting a strong .304/.377/.416 slash with the Cubs affiliate. In the 2012, he has 74 plate appearances for Triple-A Iowa, hitting only .178/.176/.329.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs: Brent Morel Scratched From Lineup, Escobar To Start At Third

The Chicago White Sox will be without their starting third baseman in Sunday's inner-city matchup. According to the official White Sox twitter account, 3B Brent Morel will take a seat in favor of INF Eduardo Escobar:

Brent Morel has been scratched from today's #WhiteSox lineup. Eduardo Escobar will play 3rd and bat 8th.

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 18, 2012

Morel has struggled -- both with a lower injury and with the bat -- in the 2012 MLB season. The 25-year-old is floundering with a .177/.225/.195 slash and is still without a home run through 125 plate appearances.

Escobar, on the other hand, has fared no better through the early part of the season. He currently sports a .176/.222/.265 slash with 1 steal through 37 plate appearances.

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

Geovany Soto Injury: Cubs Catcher Has Slight Left Knee Tear

Chicago Cubs catcher Geovany Soto might be headed for the disabled list. On Friday afternoon, it was announced the MRI on Soto's left knee revealed a slight tear.

In other news, Geovany Soto's MRI on left knee revealed slight tear in meniscus, making DL a possibility.

— Patrick Mooney (@CSNMooney) May 18, 2012

Soto was scratched from Thursday's loss to the Philadelphia Phillies. The 29-year old catcher is hitting .161 with three homers and six RBI this season for the Cubs in 93 plate appearances.The North Siders will start 25-year old Welington Castillo behind the plate today vs. the Chicago White Sox at Wrigley Field. Castillo is hitting .208 with one homer and four RBI in 24 at-bats this season.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of the White Sox, head over to South Side Sox, and for the Cubs, check out Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news, notes and analysis from around baseball, visit Baseball Nation.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Lineups: Crosstown Series Starts With Adam Dunn In Left Field

Kerry Wood might have hijacked the newscycle as the crosstown series begins Friday at Wrigley Field, but the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox still have three games to play. Both teams just released their lineups, with few surprises on either side.

Related: Kerry Wood Retirement: Cubs Reliever Could Make One Last Appearance Vs. White Sox, According To Report

Here's a look at the Cubs' lineup on Friday:

Cubs vs Sox 5/18: DeJesus 9, Campana 8, Castro 6, LaHair 3, Soriano 7, Stewart 5, Castillo 2, Barney4, Samardzija 1.

— Doug Padilla (@ESPNChiCubs) May 18, 2012

The White Sox will play Adam Dunn -- the team's everyday DH -- in left field. Dunn has a reputation as a Cubs killer dating back to his days as a member of the Cincinnati Reds, though he's also known as a pretty terrible defensive outfielder. Should make for some good TV.

Sox@Cubs 1:20, csn, 670: DeAza cf, Beckham 2b, Dunn Lf, Konerko 1B, Rios RF, Pierzynski C, Ramirez SS, Morel 3B, Humber P.

— Daryl Van Schouwen (@CST_soxvan) May 18, 2012

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of the White Sox, head over to South Side Sox, and for the Cubs, check out Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news, notes and analysis from around baseball, visit Baseball Nation.

Kerry Wood Retirement: Chicago Cubs Reliever To Call It Quits

Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood is set to announce his retirement today.

Carlos Marmol On Return From DL: 'I Have To Figure Out How To Pitch Good Again'

Technically, Chicago Cubs opening day closer Carlos Marmol has only blown two saves this season, with the last one coming on April 24. But seemingly each appearance for Marmol in 2012 has been a roller coaster ride filled with walks, hits and late inning runs. It's why Cubs fans weren't exactly upset when Marmol found himself on the 15-Day Disabled List after giving up a pair of runs to the Milwaukee Brewers during a 8-7 Chicago loss on May 11.

Marmol is scheduled to return from the DL on May 27, and said recently he plans on pitching three or four innings of rehab in Triple-A Iowa next week.

Said Marmol:

"I'll be ready soon," he said. "I have to figure out how to pitch good again, and I don't know what will happen after that."

Rookie Rafael Dolis has been solid as Marmol's replacement thus far. Dolis enters the start of today's crosstown series vs. the Chicago White Sox with a 2-3 record, a 3.52 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of the White Sox, head over to South Side Sox, and for the Cubs, check out Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more news, notes and analysis from around baseball, visit Baseball Nation.

White Sox Vs. Cubs Preview: Chicago Kicks Off First Crosstown Series Of 2012

The Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox are meeting up this weekend for the first crosstown series between the two teams during the 2012 season.

White Sox Vs. Cubs: Sox Manager Avoids Annual Wrigley Field Controversy

Chicago White Sox manager Robin Ventura will opt out of what had become a yearly media storm for former manager Ozzie Guillen. When the new southside manager was asked about thoughts concerning the Chicago Cubs home stadium -- the 99-year-old Wrigley Field -- Ventura elected to play it low-key:

"I’m not going there: It’s fine," Ventura said. "It is an old stadium, but it’s a fun stadium to play in. I enjoy playing there. The amenities aren’t great, but we are just playing baseball."

Guillen often accused Wrigley of being one of the -- if not the -- worst ballparks in the MLB, but Ventura has certainly adopted a a more peaceable perspective:

"It’s fun. It’s a great atmosphere," he said. "Any time you are in a city that has two teams, those games mean a lot. It’s fun for the fans. It’s good for us too."

For more news and updates from around the MLB, drop by Baseball Nation with Rob Neyer, or dig deeper into the stats at Beyond the Box Score. Also, check out the team blogs Bleed Cubbie Blue and South Side Sox.

White Sox Vs. Cubs: Adam Dunn To Play Left Field In Interleague Series

The White Sox and Cubs square off for the first inner-city matchup of the 2012 MLB season -- and Adam Dunn will get his first chance in the last four years to play left field.