Chicago stands out in American sports for many reasons, but one fact always sparks curiosity: the city has two Major League Baseball teams—the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. You might wonder why a single city supports two professional baseball franchises while most cities only have one. The answer lies in history, geography, and culture.
In this guide, you’ll learn how Chicago ended up with two teams, why the Cubs and White Sox developed such a fierce rivalry, and what this split means for the city today. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to baseball, this history gives you a deeper appreciation of Chicago’s unique sports identity.
The Origins of Baseball in Chicago
Baseball took root in Chicago during the mid-19th century. By the 1870s, the city became a hub for professional baseball. The Chicago White Stockings, who later became the Cubs, joined the newly formed National League in 1876. They quickly rose to prominence, winning several early championships and setting the foundation for Chicago’s baseball legacy.
As the Cubs built their history on the North Side, another team emerged to challenge their dominance. At the turn of the century, the American League was formed as a direct competitor to the National League. Chicago played a central role in this rivalry. The league granted a franchise to Charles Comiskey, who founded the Chicago White Sox. By 1901, the White Sox were official, and Chicago now had two major league teams.
Why Chicago Ended Up With Two Baseball Teams
The decision to give Chicago two teams wasn’t random. Several factors made it possible and even necessary.
Population boom: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Chicago became a major industrial and cultural center. Millions of residents wanted entertainment, and baseball was the sport of choice. Unlike smaller cities, Chicago had enough fans and resources to support two teams.
League rivalry: When the American League looked for strong markets to plant its teams, Chicago was at the top of the list. Having a franchise in such a big city gave the league credibility.
Geography: The Cubs took the North Side. The White Sox claimed the South Side. This wasn’t just about stadiums—it reflected cultural, social, and economic differences that still influence Chicago today.
The National League and the Chicago Cubs
The Cubs’ story began long before the White Sox entered the picture. They built their reputation as one of baseball’s most storied franchises. By the early 1900s, the Cubs had already won multiple championships. Wrigley Field, their home since 1914, became one of the most iconic ballparks in America.
As a North Side team, the Cubs built a fan base that stretched across neighborhoods often seen as more affluent and business-oriented. This identity shaped not only their support but also the cultural narrative that surrounded them.
The American League and the Chicago White Sox
The White Sox were born out of league rivalry. Charles Comiskey moved his minor league team to Chicago and secured a place in the new American League. The White Sox brought instant competition to the Cubs’ dominance in the city.
From the beginning, the Sox represented Chicago’s South Side, an area with a strong working-class identity. They embraced this image and developed a loyal, gritty fan base that contrasted with the Cubs’ following. Their ballpark, now known as Guaranteed Rate Field, sits just south of downtown and reflects the team’s deep roots in that part of the city.
The North Side vs. South Side Divide
If you ask a Chicagoan which team they support, the answer usually depends on where they grew up. The Cubs dominate the North Side. The White Sox rule the South Side. This split runs deeper than geography—it reflects the city’s history and social divisions.
Cubs (North Side): Fans associate the Cubs with neighborhoods like Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park, and Lakeview. These areas historically attracted more middle- and upper-class residents. The Cubs’ image became tied to tradition, charm, and the appeal of Wrigley Field.
White Sox (South Side): The Sox built their reputation around toughness and loyalty. South Side communities embraced the team as part of their identity. The White Sox fan base reflects Chicago’s working-class roots and pride.
Ballparks play a big role in this divide:
Wrigley Field, with its ivy-covered walls and old-school charm, is a symbol of baseball nostalgia.
Guaranteed Rate Field, built in the early 1990s, offers a modern but no-nonsense home for Sox fans.
Together, these stadiums represent two very different sides of Chicago baseball.
Read: How to Start a Travel Baseball Team
Rivalries, Championships, and City Pride
The Crosstown Classic, the series where the Cubs and White Sox face each other, keeps the rivalry alive. Fans take these games seriously. Winning bragging rights means more than standings—it’s about pride, identity, and neighborhood loyalty.
The Cubs and White Sox each carry their own history of triumphs and heartbreak:
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs famously endured a 108-year World Series drought, the longest in professional sports history. Their 2016 championship wasn’t just a win—it was a cultural moment that united Chicago and baseball fans across the country.
Chicago White Sox: The White Sox also had a long wait for glory, but they ended it earlier. In 2005, the Sox swept the Houston Astros to win their first World Series since 1917. The victory cemented their legacy and brought long-overdue respect to the South Side.
Both championships gave fans reason to celebrate, but they also deepened the rivalry. Cubs fans cherish the charm of tradition. Sox fans value grit and resilience. Together, they create a sports culture that defines Chicago.
FAQs: Why Does Chicago Have Two Baseball Teams?
Has any other city had two MLB teams at the same time?
Yes. Cities like New York and Los Angeles also host two teams. But Chicago was among the first to establish this setup, making it historic.
Do the Cubs and White Sox play in the same league?
No. The Cubs play in the National League. The White Sox play in the American League. This difference limits how often they meet, which makes the Crosstown Classic even more intense.
Which team is more popular in Chicago?
The Cubs generally attract a larger following, especially after their 2016 championship. However, the White Sox maintain a strong, loyal fan base that dominates the South Side.
Could Chicago ever lose one of its teams?
No. Both teams are deeply rooted in the city. The Cubs and White Sox each have long histories, dedicated stadiums, and strong fan support.
How do Cubs vs. White Sox ticket sales and attendance compare?
The Cubs often rank higher in attendance, thanks to Wrigley Field’s appeal and the team’s nationwide fan base. The White Sox see smaller crowds but enjoy a loyal, passionate following that keeps the South Side spirit alive.
Conclusion
Chicago has two baseball teams because of its size, history, and importance in the early days of professional baseball. The Cubs and White Sox were born out of league rivalry and city growth. Over time, they came to represent not just different sides of the city, but different values, identities, and traditions.
When you think about Chicago baseball, you don’t just see two teams—you see a city divided yet united by its love for the game. The Cubs and White Sox are proof that baseball isn’t just about winning and losing. It’s about history, pride, and the bond between fans and their city.
