The Crosstown Classic. This is, without question, one of the biggest/most contentious series of the year for Chicago’s baseball teams. It doesn’t matter how the teams are doing, or if they have any chance at the postseason; the thought of bringing “bragging rights” home to your specific side of town is always a great feeling when you don either of these team’s colors.

These players are always willing to put their bodies on the line for their clubs. They’ve bought in to the rivalry. They are encapsulated by it. And that was on FULL DISPLAY this past Sunday, when Cubs’ OF Ian Happ absolutely LAID OUT Sox’ SS Colson Montgomery on his way back to third.

Ian Happ truck stick results in a run for the Cubs pic.twitter.com/XWDXorItw0

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 27, 2025

“When the train is coming down the track, you best move out the way.” That was the saying that was running through my head when the ‘Happster’ TRUCKED Montgomery like he was an NFL running back. He put everything he had behind that collision, and made sure that he gave the kid from Huntingburg, IN the PERFECT introduction to the Major Leagues.

It was a perfect example of what this series means to the city of Chicago. Two teams getting down and dirty, and creating a spectacle for the fans who are in attendance. Plus, as a Cubs fan……the fact that Happ was awarded the base due to the obstruction by Monty was a nice cherry on top. (Just saying).

The best part? This was not the first time that a collision at the White Sox home park made headlines across the city. Roughly 19 years ago, back in 2006, there was an infamous punch heard around the city that involved some “catcher on catcher violence” between AJ Pierzynski and Michael Barrett.

19 years ago today, things got heated in Chicago after AJ Pierzynski & Michael Barrett got into it at home plate pic.twitter.com/XP1XxCgptC

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) May 20, 2025

Simply put; when it comes to the “Crosstown Classic,” anything is possible. These two teams always know how to put on a show, and are able to give the fans a series they’ll never forget. But in the end, as always…..what do I know? I’m just a guy from the Midwest, with a beer and a laptop, trying to make sense of this world.