Cubs like their chances vs. reeling Cardinals
Where the Cardinals have known nothing but despair for nearly a week, the Cubs just continue to lay waste to any and every adversary.
The two National League Central archenemies collide in tonight’s series opener, with an 8:05 p.m. ET first pitch at Wrigley Field. Oddsmakers at online sports book BetDSI like the hosts as 1.5-run favorites, while the Redbirds embody +145 underdogs. The over/under run total stands at 8.5.
St. Louis (35-33) enters the Friendly Confines on a five-game losing streak, having been knocked around by Houston and Texas in quick succession. On the plus side, Mike Matheny’s crew boasts a 20-12 record away from Busch Stadium. Jaime Garcia (4-6, 3.93 ERA) clearly hasn’t received the memo, though, as this evening’s starting hurler carries a 1.56 WHIP on the road.
John Lackey (7-2, 2.66), of course, excels regardless of venue. Chicago’s veteran righty took a no-decision against the Cards almost a month ago, scattering four hits over seven innings and fanning nine. Lackey’s gone at least six frames in 12 of 13 outings.
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Even if electrifying catalyst Dexter Fowler (hamstring) misses the tilt in several hours, the Cubbies (47-20) seem primed to improve to 22-6 vs. division foes. There’s ample excitement surrounding prized prospect Willson Contreras’ MLB debut behind the plate, too. He’ll catch Lackey and join a lineup that leads the senior circuit in runs scored (364), RBIs (349) and OBP (.351).
MONDAY MLB FREE PICK: CARDINALS/CUBS UNDER 8.5 RUNS
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