17th Sept - Pirates vs Cubs

It took extra innings and more than a few tight moments late, but the Chicago Cubs managed to get past the Pittsburgh Pirates in extra innings on Wednesday night, mostly because of some terrific late defensive plays from the infield.

The Cubs have posted an NL best 32-14 dating back to July 29, but tonight’s pitcher Kyle Hendricks hasn’t been quite on that level. He’s been walking too many batters and he’s been getting hit as well. Since the All-Star break, Hendricks has posted a 3-2 record with 4.95 ERA, while opponents are hitting .328 against him.

This isn’t a match-up of aces in general though. Pittsburgh’s Charlie Morton has been fairly consistent over the last few games getting through six innings in three straight starts and posting a 3.00 ERA. He’s done a better job of staying in the ball park and has a nice rhythm on the mound of late.

The Pirates have missed their chance to put some distance between themselves and the Cubs in the NL Central losing the last two games, but only be a single run each time.

Three Reasons for Betting Tips

1. Offenses break out

Neither pitcher is likely to shut things down in this match-up. We think that the eight-run Game Total offered here is a little more reflective of the flavour of the series, which has been dominated by high quality pitching, rather than the hitters. Expect them to score some runs tonight.

2. Morton has struggled against the Cubs

Hendricks hasn’t been pitching all that well. Morton’s form is better, but he has struggled against the Cubs this season going 1-1 with a near six-run ERA.

3. Pirates steal a win

We do think that the Pirates will even up this series. They’ve got the better pitcher and there will be increased urgency after a couple of unfortunate tight finishes.

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