Houston Astros vs. Chicago White Sox

An American League clash brings the Houston Astros and Chicago White Sox together in Houston. The matchup revives a postseason rivalry from the era when the White Sox swept the Astros in the World Series to end the franchise's 88-year championship drought. That sweep — and the speed-and-pitching identity of that Chicago club, built around Scott Podsednik, Jermaine Dye, Tadahito Iguchi, and closer Bobby Jenks — still defines how many fans remember the White Sox.

For today's fans, the game offers a chance to watch two teams with long histories and devoted followings. The White Sox's championship season was managed by Ozzie Guillén and powered by Paul Konerko, who hit 40 home runs. The Astros enter as the home side, looking to defend their ballpark in front of a Houston crowd.