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Old 10-22-2025, 11:29 AM   #259
amead17
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White Sox snap 10 game losing streak

WHITE SOX SNAP TEN-GAME SLIDE WITH HARD-FOUGHT 3–2 WIN OVER NAPS

Bender Steadies the Ship as Isbell Sparks Late-Inning Rally
By Charles H. Wentworth, Sporting Times
May 8th, 1907

At last, the storm has broken on the South Side. After two long, frustrating weeks, the Chicago White Sox finally tasted victory again, edging the Cleveland Naps 3–2 in front of a relieved home crowd. The win — their first since April 25th — brings their record to 10–15 and restores a glimmer of confidence to a club that, only last season, captured the pennant and seemed destined for continued success.

The game itself was a tense affair. Chicago struck first, building a 2–0 lead in the early innings, only to see it evaporate in the sixth when Cleveland clawed back to tie the score. With recent losses still fresh in their minds, the home crowd grew uneasy — but this time, the White Sox refused to yield.

The decisive moment came in the eighth inning, courtesy of Frank Isbell’s determination. After drawing a walk, Isbell promptly stole second base, setting up a chance to reclaim the lead. When Terry Turner drove a ball into the outfield, a Cleveland miscue allowed Isbell to race home, scoring what would prove to be the winning run.

On the mound, Charles “Chief” Bender delivered exactly what his club needed — a steady, complete-game effort. Over nine innings, he yielded just seven hits and two runs, striking out four. Though the young hurler has endured a difficult start to the season, now 2–5 with a 2.87 ERA, his composure and command on this day reminded all present of his considerable talent.

After the game, Bender spoke candidly about his early struggles and the importance of the win.

“It’s been a hard few weeks, no doubt,” Bender admitted. “When things don’t go your way, all you can do is keep taking the ball and trust your work. Today, the fellows played sharp behind me, and it feels good to finally give them something to smile about.”

Manager Clark Griffith, visibly relieved, praised his pitcher and the team’s resilience after what has been a bruising start to their title defense.

“Every club hits a rough patch,” Griffith said. “We’ve had ours early. The important thing is that the men didn’t quit. Bender showed real grit out there, and Isbell’s hustle turned the tide. Maybe this is the spark we’ve needed to get back to playing the kind of baseball Chicago expects of us.”

Whether this marks a true turning point remains to be seen, but for one afternoon at least, the White Sox looked again like the champions of old — composed, determined, and hungry to climb back into contention.
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