Cubs vs. Diamondbacks, 7/16/21 MLB Predictions & Betting Odds

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks Prediction

The Cubs will begin their second half on Friday night in Arizona where they’ll take on the Diamondbacks at 9:40 p.m. ET. With Kyle Hendricks on the mound to oppose Madison Bumgarner, what’s the best bet on the board?

Game Snapshot

915 Chicago Cubs (-150) at 916 Arizona Diamondbacks (+130); o/u 9.5

9:40 p.m. ET, Friday, July 16, 2021

Chase Field, Arizona

Chicago Cubs DFS Notes

Cubs acquired 1B prospect Bryce Ball from the Braves in exchange for Joc Pederson. Ball came into the 2021 considered one of the better prospects at the first base position, but he's been awful in 2021 with a .207 average and just six homers in 169 at-bats. He has drawn 40 walks, however, and a .354 on-base percentage is nothing to sneeze at. Ball just turned 23 on July 8, and the massive first baseman has a chance to be a three true outcome player in a couple years.

Arizona Diamondbacks DFS Notes

Madison Bumgarner (shoulder) will start Friday against the Cubs. The Diamondbacks haven't announced a starter for Saturday, but Merrill Kelly will get the ball on Sunday. The big story here is Bumgarner's return, however, as the left-hander will come back from the injured list for the first time since being placed on the injured list at the start of June with left shoulder discomfort. The 31-year-old was once among the best starters in baseball, but now isn't a recommended fantasy option -- especially with Arizona being among the worst teams in the sport.

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks MLB Betting Prediction

The Cubs have won eight of their last 11 meetings with the Diamondbacks and are 4-0 in their last four games when facing an opponent with a winning percentage that is below .400. The Cubs are also 19-9 in their last 28 games when favored and 4-1 in their last five games as a road favorite. On the other side, the Diamondbacks are 8-44 in their last 52 games overall, are 6-48 in their last 54 games when listed as the underdog and are 2-12 in their last 14 games versus opponents from the National League Central.

MLB BETTING PREDICTION: CHICAGO CUBS -150