Chicago Cubs vs
Philadelphia PhilliesPredictions & Preview

Cubs Look to Capitalize on Struggling Phillies Starter in Second Game of Series

The Chicago Cubs are scheduled to face the Philadelphia Phillies in the second game of a three-game series on Tuesday at 6:40 p.m. ET. Justin Steele is set to start as pitcher for the Cubs with an ERA of 3.17, while Tanner Banks with an ERA of 3.91 will start for the Phillies. Despite Chicago being the betting favorite with an opening line of -126, there has been no movement in the betting line as of now. Please note that this information is provided prior to the conclusion of Monday's game.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Cubs -126 | Phillies +114
• Spread: Cubs -1.5 (+135) | Phillies +1.5 (-154)
• Total: Over/Under 8 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Chicago will win straight-up is 56%.

Chicago vs Philadelphia Stats

Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs are entering their series with the Philadelphia Phillies with a record of 80-76, having recently won three out of four games against the Washington Nationals. The team has a batting line of .243/.317/.396, ranking 16th, 10th, and 15th in the majors respectively. When playing on the road, the Cubs have a slightly improved line of .255/.331/.415. Left-hander Justin Steele will be starting for the team on Tuesday, with a 5-5 record and a 3.03 ERA. In his last start, he pitched 2.2 innings without allowing any runs against the Pirates. Against the Phillies, Steele has a career record of 1-0 with a 0.82 ERA. On the road this season, Steele has a record of 2-2 with a 2.77 ERA. The Cubs have a team ERA of 3.79, ranking ninth in the league. In terms of power rankings, the Cubs are ranked 12th, with an offense ranked 13th and defense ranked 12th. The team's average for scoring and allowing points per game are 4.58 and 4.15 respectively. Overall, the Cubs are currently 80-77 for the season.

Philadelphia Phillies Analysis

The Philadelphia Phillies, with a record of 92-64, have already clinched the NL East as they enter their home series against the Cubs. Despite losing three of their last four games to the New York Mets, they are expected to start right-hander Taijuan Walker, who has struggled with a 6.91 ERA and a 1-3 record at home this season. Despite this, the Phillies have a solid team ERA of 3.77 and rank eighth in the league. Offensively, they have been impressive, slashing .257/.325/.424 overall and .256/.330/.432 at home. Some key players to watch are Steele, Bohm, Castellanos, Realmuto, and Schwarber, who have had mixed success against the Cubs in the past. Overall, the Phillies have a power ranking of 7 and are ranked 4th in offense, scoring an average of 4.84 runs per game. Defensively, they are ranked 8th, giving up an average of 4.07 runs per game. The Cubs have had some recent success against the Phillies, winning 2 out of their last 3 matchups.

Chicago Cubs Poised for Victory Against Struggling Phillies Starter

Although the Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies may both be out of playoff contention, the Cubs present a favorable opportunity in this matchup. Walker has struggled significantly this season, and recent performances suggest that this trend is likely to continue. Given Chicago's strong offensive capabilities and Steele's consistent pitching, it is reasonable to anticipate the Cubs will perform well against Walker. Therefore, it is advisable to favor the Chicago Cubs in this game.

Sources: [ 1 ]