In a thrilling National League Central clash, the St. Louis Cardinals (57-54) rebounded on Saturday with a nail-biting 5-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs (54-59). This win allowed the Cardinals to shake off the setbacks from the first two games of the series, setting the stage for a decisive showdown.
Miles Mikolas (8-8) was the cornerstone of this remarkable game, delivering a gritty performance. Despite his season ERA standing at a concerning 4.99, Mikolas showcased his resilience on the mound, helping the Cardinals secure the much-needed win.
Justin Steele's stats offer an interesting contrast, with a 2-5 record and a 3.38 ERA. Though Steele's figures suggest a stronger individual performance throughout the season, it was Mikolas who emerged victorious in this intense encounter.
Prime Time Decider
The series now heads to a highly-anticipated prime-time showdown on Sunday Night Baseball, with the first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. The bookmakers have tipped Chicago as the favorites, listing them at -148 on the money line. However, given the unpredictable nature of baseball, anything can happen in this crucial game.
Interestingly, the over/under for total runs in this game is pegged at 9. It’s worth noting that the Cubs' total runs have hit the Under in 25 of their last 38 home games. This statistic might give bettors something to ponder as they place their wagers.
Cardinals' Road Performances
The Cardinals have been impressive on the road, having covered the run line in nine of their last 11 away games. This strong performance away from home could give them a crucial edge in the upcoming fixture. Moreover, with players like Alec Burleson stepping up, St. Louis looks poised to challenge Chicago's favored status.
Key Players to Watch
Cody Bellinger remains a key player for the Cubs, boasting a .276 batting average, 11 home runs, and 42 RBI on the season. On Thursday, Bellinger demonstrated his prowess by going 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run against St. Louis, indicating he’s in fine form heading into the series decider.
Ian Happ also continues to be a crucial contributor for Chicago. With a .228 average, 17 home runs, and a team-leading 62 RBI, Happ’s recent performances suggest he could be a game-changer. A standout moment includes his 3-for-4 performance with a double and a homer, driving in two runs against the Cincinnati Reds on July 31.
Cardinals' Offensive Power
On the Cardinals' side, Alec Burleson has been a revelation this season. With a solid .278 batting average, 19 home runs, and 64 RBI, Burleson adds significant strength to St. Louis' lineup. His 1-for-4 outing, driving in two runs in a win over the Rangers on July 31, highlights his ability to perform under pressure.
Nolan Arenado is another player making waves for the Cardinals. With a .266 batting average, 11 home runs, and 48 RBI, complemented by an impressive .705 on-base percentage, Arenado is a vital cog in the St. Louis machine. His 2-for-4 performance, including two singles and an RBI on Thursday, underscores his consistency.
As the teams prepare for Sunday night's prime-time clash, both sides are expected to bring their A-game to the field. While the Cubs have the bookmakers' backing, the Cardinals' recent form and resilience on the road could very well tilt the balance. With star players like Bellinger, Happ, Burleson, and Arenado in the spotlight, fans can look forward to a match that promises high drama and thrilling baseball action.