Last Updated on July 27, 2016 3:27 pm by Brad Burns
Cubs-White Sox standoff moves to Wrigleyville
The Cubs and their fans couldn’t wait to get Aroldis Chapman into yesterday’s action. Yet, a no-show on offense prevented the squad’s new closer from even taking the mound.
Joe Maddon’s troops got blanked by the White Sox, 3-0, in another underwhelming performance at U.S. Cellular Field. Handicappers anticipate a different result as the scene shifts to the North Side. According to online sports book Bovada.lv, the National League Central leaders represent 1.5-run favorites tonight. Robin Ventura’s club enters the Friendly Confines as a +220 underdog.
Discover an Easy Way to Make Big $$$$! Get 20% off. Call now! 1-866-491-0259
The Cubbies’ scuffling bats may finally perk up at 8:05 p.m. ET. They’ll encounter Anthony Ranaudo (1-0, 17.18 ERA), who makes his team debut with the South Siders. In 13 appearances at Triple-A Charlotte, the righty went 5-3 with a 3.20 ERA. He previously spent time with the Rangers and Red Sox, too, going a combined 5-4 with a 1.56 WHIP.
Bet on This Evening’s MLB Games
Jason Hammel offers a considerably more stable option for the hosts. The 33-year-old pursues his third win in a row, as he holds a 2-0 record with a 2.45 ERA since the All-Star break. In eight outings at Wrigley Field in 2016, Hammel is 4-1 with a 2.70 ERA.
MLB Quick Links: Scores & Matchups | Injuries | Odds Comparison | Betting Trends | ATS Stats
We practically accept Hammels’ steadiness as a given. The Cubs’ middle-of-the-order threats are also overdue for an eruption, with third baseman Kris Bryant still searching for his first RBI in two-plus weeks. He’ll find it in several hours, and expect the rest of the lumber brigade to follow suit.
WEDNESDAY MLB FREE PICK: CUBS -1.5