Chicago Cubs vs
Tampa Bay RaysPredictions & Preview

Cubs Aim to Rebound Against Rays in Interleague Finale After Walk-Off Loss

The article discusses the upcoming finale of an interleague series between two struggling teams, the Cubs and the Rays, in Florida. The Cubs will be looking to bounce back after a walk-off loss in the first game of the series. The pitching matchup features Justin Steele for the Cubs and Taj Bradley for the Rays. Despite being the favorite, the Cubs will need to generate enough offense to secure a victory before returning home. The betting line remains steady at -110 for Chicago.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Cubs -110 | Rays +100
• Spread: Cubs -1.5 (+155) | Rays +1.5 (-173)
• Total: Over/Under 7.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Chicago will win straight-up is 52%.

Chicago vs Tampa Bay Stats

Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs have been struggling since the end of April, with their latest setback coming in the opening game of a recent series. With a current record of 32-35, they are tied for third in the NL Central, seven games behind the division-leading Brewers. Despite some standout performances from players like David Bote and Christopher Morel, the Cubs have struggled with runners in scoring positions and suffered a loss in the previous game. Pitcher Justin Steele will be starting in the upcoming game, looking to improve on his 0-3 record with a 3.65 ERA. In addition, the Cubs are ranked 17th in offense, 20th in defense, and have a power ranking of 25.

Tampa Bay Rays Analysis

The Tampa Bay Rays bounced back from a four-game sweep with a walk-off win in the opening game of their recent set against the Orioles. Despite standing in last place in the AL East, the Rays showed promise with key performances from Yandy Diaz, Ben Rortvedt, and Brandon Lowe. Pitcher Zach Eflin had a strong showing, and relief pitcher Chris Devenski earned the win. Taj Bradley will be starting the upcoming game for the Rays. Despite recent struggles, Bradley has shown potential with solid stats. The Rays currently have a power ranking of 27 and a record of 32-35. In their last three matchups, Chicago had a winning record against Tampa Bay. For more insight on the MLB season, consider checking out Free MLB Picks.

Late-Inning Heroics Lead Tampa Bay Rays to Walk-Off Win in Opening Game; Can Cubs' Steele Secure Victory in Rematch?

The Tampa Bay Rays were able to secure a victory in the opening game by scoring four runs in the bottom of the ninth inning for a walk-off win on Tuesday night. The team has faced challenges throughout the season with ongoing struggles, including pitching issues with Bradley. Despite his winless record, Steele of the Cubs has shown improvements in recent starts following a period of adjustment after returning from a hamstring injury sustained on Opening Day. Chicago's lineup must improve, particularly in situational hitting with runners in scoring position. It is anticipated that Steele will perform well against Tampa Bay, allowing the Cubs to secure a road victory in this upcoming matchup.

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