The Chicago White Sox return to Guaranteed Rate Field on Thursday, September 10, for a 7:40 PM ET matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Hagen Smith gets the ball for Chicago against Pittsburgh's Jared Jones in a late-season regular season contest with both clubs looking to close out September on their own terms. Chicago Sports Network has the local television call, with radio coverage available on ESPN Chicago WMVP 1000 AM.

Starting Pitchers: Hagen Smith vs. Jared Jones

Smith draws the assignment for the Sox in what figures to be a closely watched outing. The young left-hander has been part of Chicago's pitching plans this season, and Thursday night gives him another opportunity to build on his body of work in front of the home crowd. His development is one of the more genuine reasons to watch this franchise right now, regardless of where the standings sit.

Jones takes the hill for Pittsburgh. The right-hander has shown flashes of frontline stuff since coming up with the Pirates, and he presents a legitimate challenge for a White Sox lineup that will need to stay disciplined and work counts to do damage. Jones can overpower hitters when his mechanics are locked in, so an early read on his command will be critical for Chicago's approach.

Keys to Watch for the White Sox

• Early offense against Jones: If Chicago can get to Jones before he settles in, the lineup has a better chance of manufacturing runs. Patient at-bats early will be essential.
• Smith's command and pitch mix: How Smith navigates Pittsburgh's lineup, particularly against right-handed hitters, will go a long way toward determining the outcome. Keeping the ball in the zone without giving in is the balance he needs to strike.
• Bullpen management: With September rosters expanded, Chicago has options out of the pen. Using them wisely — and not asking too much of Smith if his pitch count climbs — is a decision the coaching staff will face in real time.
• Baserunning and small ball: Against a pitcher like Jones, manufactured runs may matter more than waiting for a big inning. Smart baserunning could be the difference.

Prediction

This is the kind of game that comes down to which starter sets the tone earliest. Smith has the home-field advantage and the crowd behind him at Guaranteed Rate Field, which is never nothing in September. If he can log five-plus quality innings and the Sox offense makes Jones work, Chicago has a real shot. Call it a narrow White Sox win, 3-2, in a game that stays tight wire to wire.