Chicago vs New York Yankees Predictions July 8, 2023: D. Smyly vs G. Cole
The Chicago Cubs (40-46) face off against the New York Yankees (48-40) at Yankee Stadium for the second game of their three-game interleague series on Saturday afternoon.
Game outlook
The Chicago Cubs (40-46) face off against the New York Yankees (48-40) at Yankee Stadium for the second game of their three-game interleague series on Saturday afternoon. Drew Smyly (7-5, 4.10 ERA) will take the mound for Chicago while the Yankees counter with Gerrit Cole (8-2, 2.79 ERA). New York is 9-1 in their last 10 games against the Cubs and is the favorite to win, opening at -179 with no changes in the betting line. This preview was written before Friday's game was played, so the outcome of that contest could have an influence on Saturday's outcome.
NY Yankees See Mixed Results in Recent Games; Anthony Rizzo and Aaron Judge Lead Batting and Home Run Stats
The New York Yankees, who have won three of their last five games, are averaging 4.43 runs per game. Their batting has been below average with a .231 batting average that ranks 26th in the league, and on base percentage at 27th and slugging percentage at 14th. Individually, Anthony Rizzo leads the team with a batting average of .261 and Aaron Judge tops the team with 19 home runs and 40 RBIs. The Yankees pitching, however, has been solid, with 4.17 runs per game, a .232 batting average against them that is third in the league, a 3.70 ERA (4th) and a 1.23 WHIP (5th). In his latest start, Gerrit Cole delivered six innings of two-run work, but the team was unable to secure the win against St. Louis - final score 5-1. In preparation for their upcoming game against the Cubs, Jake Bauers (shoulder) is listed as doubtful. The team will seek a win needing a strong start from Cole and a full, healthy roster.