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MLB PicksThu 7:20 PM ET
CH
Chicago3
M. Stroman RHP
versus
Atlanta Braves logo
Atlanta
Braves5
A. Smith Shawver RHP
Final
Team123456789T
CHC1000010103
ATL22100000—5

Chicago vs Atlanta Braves Predictions September 28, 2023: M. Stroman vs A. Smith Shawver

Game time: September 28, 2023 at 7:20 PM ET

Venue: Truist Park — Atlanta, Georgia

Article updated Sep 28, 10:15 AM EDT

By SportsJaw Editorial Team

The opening pitch at Truist Park is scheduled for 7:20 pm ET. The Cubs and Braves are battling for playoff positioning in a three-game series in Hotlanta this week. The

Game outlook

The opening pitch at Truist Park is scheduled for 7:20 pm ET. The Cubs and Braves are battling for playoff positioning in a three-game series in Hotlanta this week. The Braves won the first game on Tuesday night, and the Cubs will try to even the score when the two teams face off on Thursday night at Truist Park. Marcus Stroman (ERA: 3.88) will start for Cubs, while AJ Smith-Shawver (ERA: 4.57) will go for the Braves, who are the favored team at the opening line of -148. The game is set to begin at 7:20pm ET.

Game Info

When: Thursday, 9/28/2023 @ 7:20pm EST

Where: Truist Park Stadium Cubs vs Braves Betting Odds Moneyline: Cubs +126 | Braves -142

Spread: Cubs +1.5 (-158) | Braves -1.5 (+137)

Total: Over/Under 9.5 (-110)

Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Atlanta will win straight-up is 59%.

Chicago Cubs

• Cubs entered Tuesday 82-75 on the season and stood second in the NL Central • Justin Steele didn't factor in the decision as he threw 5.1 innings, allowing three runs on six hits with one walk and six strikeouts • Drew Smyly (11-10) took the loss in relief • Marcus Stroman is 10-8 with a 3.88 ERA, a 1.248 WHIP, 52 walks and 117 strikeouts over 134.2 innings of work this season • Power ranking of 12; 6th in offense (averaging 5.08 points per game), 15th in defense (allowing 4.45 points per game)

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Atlanta Braves Analysis

Atlanta rallied from six runs down to take the opening game of the series Tuesday night. The Braves are 101-56 on the season, clinching the NL East title and a four-game lead on the Dodgers to secure the NL’s top record. Bryce Elder didn’t factor in the decision, allowing five runs on seven hits with four walks and two strikeouts over 3.2 innings. Brad Hand (5-2) earned the win with a 1-2-3 eighth inning, striking out one, while Raisel Iglesias threw a scoreless ninth, allowing one hit with no walks and two strikeouts, for his 31st save of the season. Dylan Dodd is expected to make his seventh start of the season Thursday - he comes in 2-2 with a 7.62 ERA and 14 strikeouts over 28.1 innings. The Braves are #1 for offense (scoring an average of 5.83 per game) and #11 for defense (giving up an average of 4.36 points per game) Chicago is 2-1 in their last 3 matchups against Atlanta.

Cubs Look to Make the Most of Braves' Weak Rotation to Earn Redemption after Difficult Defeat

After Tuesday's difficult defeat, the Cubs have a great opportunity to redeem themselves. Atlanta is currently without Max Fried and Charlie Morton in their rotation, with Morton unlikely to return until the NLCS, should the team make it. Also, Kyle Wright was converted to a bullpen role as there is not enough time to get him in game-shape after his extended absence. Chicago's offense was able to generate offense against the Braves' pitching, which could be beneficial in this situation. With Atlanta having all but secured the division title, the Cubs should look to capitalize and achieve a win before the series ends.

Written by Gsimms Published on 09/28/2023 Category: MLB Picks

About the Author: I use a private handicapping system that I've created and adjusted over the last 20 years. My betting philosophy is discipline and bankroll management.

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