Teams trending in opposite directions of late are set to clash in an interleague matchup as the Toronto Blue Jays take on the Chicago Cubs this Friday afternoon. The two teams converge at Wrigley Field with the Blue Jays riding a three-game winning streak, while the Cubs aim to snap a three-game skid.
Current Form and Standings
Toronto, situated fifth in the American League East with a 57-64 record, appears to be finding form late in the season, having won six of their last ten games. Their recent success has given them a slight edge in momentum as they prepare to face Chicago.
On the other hand, the Cubs are positioned fourth in the National League Central at 59-63, and have a less impressive record during day games, standing at 26-28. Their recent slump contrasts starkly with the Blue Jays' positive trend.
Historical Context
In their all-time series, the Blue Jays hold a narrow 11-10 advantage over the Cubs. However, Chicago has been dominant at home, particularly at Wrigley Field, where they lead 4-2 in games played against Toronto.
Betting Odds and Projections
For those eyeing the betting lines, Chicago is currently a -114 favorite according to the latest odds. The over/under for the game is set at 10 runs, reflecting expectations of a possibly high-scoring affair. The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every MLB game 10,000 times, brings further insight into the contest. Entering Week 21 of the MLB season, the model boasts a 25-13 record on top-rated run-line picks, demonstrating a consistent track record.
Starting Pitchers
Chicago is set to send right-hander Kyle Hendricks (3-10, 6.60 ERA) to the mound. Despite his less-than-stellar record and ERA, Hendricks has shown resilience in recent performances, allowing three or fewer earned runs in 12 of his last 14 appearances. In his latest outing, a 3-0 loss to the Minnesota Twins, he pitched six innings, allowing five hits and two earned runs while striking out five. Hendricks' standout moment came on July 12, when he delivered seven shutout innings in a 5-1 victory over St. Louis.
For Toronto, right-hander Yariel Rodriguez (1-5, 3.60 ERA) will start. Rodriguez, despite his own challenges, has been a solid presence in the rotation. In his most recent appearance, a tough 1-0 loss to the Oakland Athletics, he pitched 5.2 innings, allowing just one earned run and striking out five. Over 12 starts, Rodriguez has logged 50 innings, giving up 40 hits and striking out 52 batters, showcasing his strikeout abilities.
Key Players to Watch
Center fielder Cody Bellinger stands out as one of Chicago’s top hitters. In 92 games this season, Bellinger has hit .276 with 16 doubles, one triple, 12 homers, and 46 RBI. His performance on August 9 against the Chicago White Sox, where he went 3-for-4 with a homer, two RBI, and two runs, underlines his capacity to deliver in critical moments. Bellinger has hits in seven of the past ten games and boasts a .318 batting average in six career games against Toronto.
For the Blue Jays, first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains a pivotal figure. The 25-year-old has been a force at the plate, hitting .323 in 120 games, complemented by 32 doubles, one triple, 25 homers, and 80 RBI. Guerrero Jr. was instrumental in the recent series against the Los Angeles Angels, going 6-for-14 with two homers and four RBI. His standout game came on August 8, where he recorded three hits, including a double, triple, and homer, driving in four runs in a 7-6 win over the Baltimore Orioles.
As the Blue Jays and Cubs meet under the sunny skies of Wrigley Field, the contest promises to be a compelling battle of contrasting forms and individual brilliance. With both teams seeking to bolster their standings, fans can expect an exciting and closely-fought encounter this Friday afternoon at 2:20 p.m. ET.