Attention Cubs Fans, today the Chicago Cubs will face the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. The Cubs need to bounce back against the Blue Jays who have a strong home record in baseball after dropping the first game of the series. The pitching duel will feature rookie Cade Horton for the Cubs going up against experienced Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman which promises an interesting showdown.
Key Matchup: Horton vs. Gausman
The Chicago Cubs will start their rookie right-handed pitcher Cade Horton for this game. The young pitcher has shown great form by winning his last three starts while maintaining a zero earned run average in 17 consecutive innings. The Cubs pitcher holds a 6-3 record with a 3.18 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 79.1 but he will encounter a challenging Blue Jays offense.
The Blue Jays’ offensive power will present a difficult challenge for the Cubs’ rookie Horton. The Toronto Blue Jays will send their right-handed pitcher Kevin Gausman as their starting pitcher. Gausman maintains an 8-8 record with a 3.85 ERA and he has been exceptional when pitching at home since opposing players have managed just a .214 batting average against him.
He is coming off a strong outing against the Rockies, pitching seven innings and allowing just one run. His ability to limit hits and strike out batters will be crucial for the Blue Jays.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Moneyline: Blue Jays (-130 to -135), Cubs (+110 to +115)
Spread: Blue Jays -1.5
Total: 8.5 runs
Expert predictions lean towards the Blue Jays securing a victory, though some anticipate a close game. The over on the total runs is also a popular pick, given the offensive capabilities of both teams, particularly the Blue Jays at home.
Team Performance and Trends
The Cubs need to end their offensive drought since they have been underperforming in recent matches. Their performance in Game 2s throughout this season has been impressive although they face offensive challenges. Scoring early has proven to be their main factor for achieving success.
The Blue Jays have established themselves as a dominant force at Rogers Centre by maintaining one of the highest home records throughout the league. Their winning percentage remains high when they enter games as favorites while they demonstrate strong resilience by succeeding in tight matchups.
Key Player Matchups
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (Blue Jays): A consistent offensive threat, Guerrero Jr. is hitting .300 with 19 home runs and 64 RBIs. He’s been particularly hot in August, batting .455 in his last five games.
Pete Crow-Armstrong (Cubs): Crow-Armstrong leads the Cubs with 27 home runs and has been a significant power source. However, he’s had a slow start to August.
Ernie Clement (Blue Jays): Clement has been a productive hitter for the Blue Jays, batting .286 with 23 doubles and 9 home runs. He’s on a hitting streak and has shown power in recent games.
Seiya Suzuki (Cubs): Suzuki is a key run producer for the Cubs, with 27 home runs and 84 RBIs. Betting trends suggest he might hit the under on hits and RBIs in away games.
Injury Updates
Cubs: Michael Soroka (shoulder) is progressing and will play catch. Jameson Taillon (calf) is set to throw a rehab game and could return soon. Justin Steele (elbow) is out for the season.
Blue Jays: No significant injuries were highlighted for the upcoming game.
We here at UrbanMatter Chicago hope the Cubs can win this game. Let´s Go Cubs!
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