The Cleveland Guardians erupted for nine runs in the first four innings, burying the Chicago White Sox early in a 9-5 rout Friday night. The offensive explosion was fueled by a relentless two-out rally in the third, where Carlos Santana delivered the knockout blow—a two-run single that capped a five-run frame. Santana finished with four RBIs, while CJ Kayfus contributed three more, as Cleveland's lineup made Aaron Civale's night a nightmare. The White Sox starter lasted just 3.1 innings, surrendering nine runs (eight earned) on eight hits before the bullpen finally stemmed the tide.

Chicago's late push—highlighted by Brooks Baldwin's solo homer and Curtis Mead's two-run single—proved too little, too late against Cleveland's balanced attack. Kyle Manzardo and Kayfus each collected two hits, combining for five runs scored as the Guardians' patience at the plate (seven walks) wore down White Sox pitching. The victory keeps Cleveland's postseason hopes alive, while Chicago's struggles continue in a season rapidly slipping away.