Cincinnati Reds vs
Chicago CubsPredictions & Preview

Cubs Favored to Beat Reds in High-Scoring Pitching Matchup on Sunday

The Cincinnati Reds are facing the Chicago Cubs in the middle game of a three-game series in the Windy City. The Reds are coming off a loss against the Royals, while the Cubs are coming off a series sweep against Colorado. The starting pitchers are Nick Lodolo for the Reds and Ben Brown for the Cubs. Chicago is the betting favorite with a current line of -156. Stay tuned for our Reds vs. Cubs prediction.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Reds +137 | Cubs -156
• Spread: Reds +1.5 (-160) | Cubs -1.5 (+139)
• Total: Over/Under 7.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Chicago will win straight-up is 61%.

Cincinnati vs Chicago Stats

Cincinnati Reds

The Cincinnati Reds had a strong showing in three out of four games, but ultimately fell short in the series finale against the Royals on Wednesday night. Despite their efforts, they entered Friday with a record of 28-29, placing them fourth in the NL Central and 7.5 games behind the Cubs for the division lead. In the last game, the Reds finished with nine hits with Tyler Stephenson and Spencer Steer each contributing three. However, they struggled with runners in scoring position, going only two for eight and leaving seven runners on base. Hunter Greene took the loss, allowing two runs on seven hits over five innings. Looking ahead, Nick Lodolo is set to make his 12th start of the season for the Reds with a record of 4-4 and a 3.39 ERA. Cincinnati ranks 9th in offense, 14th in defense, and has a power ranking of 13.

Chicago Cubs Analysis

The Chicago Cubs recently won their fourth consecutive game and 10th in their last 12, sweeping the Rockies in a series. With a record of 35-21, they hold a three-game lead on the Cardinals for the top spot in the NL Central. Against Colorado, the Cubs finished with six hits, with Pete Crow-Armstrong hitting his 15th home run in the victory. Matthew Boyd earned the win, pitching six innings with eight strikeouts. In the upcoming series finale, pitcher Ben Brown will make his 12th appearance for the Cubs. Despite recent struggles, the Cubs are ranked #1 for offense, averaging 5.96 runs per game. Their defense ranks 16th, giving up an average of 4.25 runs per game. Against the Reds, the Cubs have gone 2-1 in their last three matchups.

Cubs favored to win against Reds in high-scoring pitching matchup

The pitching matchup in the finale of the Cincinnati set on Sunday resulted in a total of 19 runs. Despite recent struggles, Brown's FIP ERA in his last three starts has been 3.70, significantly lower than his actual number. Lodolo has faced challenges against the Cubs in past matchups and the Reds' bullpen has had difficulties protecting leads this season. The Cubs possess a formidable offense and are playing at home, giving them an advantage in this game. Brown is likely to have a limited opportunity on the mound, with manager Craig Counsell ready to turn to the bullpen if needed. Overall, the Cubs are favored to win in this matchup on their home turf.

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