The Chicago White Sox enter Game 4 of the 2026 American League Division Series one win away from advancing. Chicago leads the Cleveland Guardians 2–1 in the best-of-five series heading into Thursday, October 8. A victory clinches the series; a defeat forces a decisive Game 5. Series report
If Game 4 is tied after nine innings, the teams play extra innings until a winner is determined.
White Sox Game 4 Scenarios at a Glance
| Game 4 result | Series outcome | What happens next |
|---|---|---|
| White Sox win | Chicago wins the series 3–1 | The White Sox advance to the ALCS; Cleveland is eliminated. |
| Tied after nine innings | Game remains undecided | Play continues into extra innings. |
| White Sox lose | Series tied 2–2 | Both teams play a winner-take-all Game 5. |
What Happens If the White Sox Win Game 4?
A White Sox victory would clinch the ALDS 3–1 and send Chicago to the American League Championship Series.
The Guardians would be eliminated from the 2026 MLB playoffs, and Game 5 would no longer be necessary. In a best-of-five series, the first team to win three games advances.
Can White Sox vs. Guardians Game 4 End in a Tie?
No. MLB postseason games do not end in a tie. If the score is level after nine completed innings, Game 4 continues into extra innings until one team wins. Official MLB rules
Unlike the regular season, postseason extra innings begin with empty bases. There is no automatic runner on second base. MLB postseason extra-innings rules
A tied score during the game does not change Chicago’s 2–1 series lead. The final result determines whether the White Sox advance or return for Game 5.
What Happens If the White Sox Lose Game 4?
A White Sox loss would tie the series 2–2, giving Cleveland and Chicago two wins each.
Chicago would still have a chance to advance, but everything would come down to Game 5. The winner of that final game would move on to the ALCS, while the loser would be eliminated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the White Sox clinch the ALDS in Game 4?
Yes. Chicago leads 2–1 and needs one more victory to win the best-of-five series.
Are the White Sox eliminated if they lose Game 4?
No. A loss would tie the series 2–2 and force a deciding Game 5.
What happens if Game 4 is tied after nine innings?
The teams play extra innings until a winner is determined. Postseason extra innings start with empty bases.
Do the White Sox reach the World Series with a Game 4 win?
No. A Game 4 victory would send Chicago to the American League Championship Series. The White Sox would then need to win the ALCS to reach the World Series.