In a classic interleague matchup, the Toronto Blue Jays and the Chicago Cubs, two teams currently heading in very different directions, are set to face off on Friday afternoon at Wrigley Field. The Blue Jays come into this game riding a wave with three consecutive wins, while the Cubs are struggling, having lost their last three games.
The Toronto Blue Jays, with a season record of 57-64 and sitting fifth in the American League East, have managed to turn things around, winning six of their last ten games. This surge has fans hopeful for a strong finish to the season despite being well behind in their division standings.
On the other hand, the Chicago Cubs, fourth in the National League Central with a 59-63 record, have been inconsistent. Their performance during the day stands at a near .500 mark (26-28), adding an extra layer of unpredictability to this clash. Historically, the Blue Jays have a slight edge in the all-time series, leading 11-10. However, the Cubs have been more successful when playing at home, boasting a 4-2 record against Toronto at Wrigley Field.
The first pitch is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago enters the game as a slight -114 favorite according to the latest Blue Jays vs. Cubs odds. The over/under for total runs scored is set at 10, indicating expectations of an offensively driven game.
Probable Pitchers
Chicago will send right-hander Kyle Hendricks to the mound. Despite his 3-10 record and a 6.60 ERA this season, Hendricks has shown flashes of brilliance recently. He has allowed three or fewer earned runs in 12 of his last 14 appearances. His most recent outing was a tough-luck loss against the Minnesota Twins where he pitched six strong innings, giving up two earned runs while striking out five.
Past performances provide some optimism for Cubs fans; Hendricks delivered a masterful performance against the St. Louis Cardinals on July 12, pitching seven shutout innings with five hits and one walk. If that version of Hendricks shows up, the Cubs will be in a good position to end their losing streak.
For the Blue Jays, right-hander Yariel Rodriguez will get the start. Rodriguez, 1-5 with a 3.60 ERA, has been reliable if not spectacular. In his last start, Rodriguez was the hard-luck loser in a 1-0 defeat to the Oakland Athletics. He went 5.2 innings, allowing just one earned run, five hits, and striking out five. His ability to keep runs off the board will be crucial if Toronto hopes to extend their winning streak.
Key Players to Watch
Center fielder Cody Bellinger has been among the standout hitters for the Cubs this season. In 92 games, Bellinger has posted a .276 batting average with 16 doubles, a triple, 12 home runs, and 46 RBIs. His recent performance against the Chicago White Sox was particularly notable, as he went 3-for-4 with a home run, two RBIs, and two runs scored in a thrilling 7-6 victory.
Bellinger’s form has remained steady with hits in seven of his last ten games, and he has enjoyed success against the Blue Jays over his career, batting .318 with three doubles, a homer, and six RBIs in six games.
On the Blue Jays’ side, first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continues to be a force at the plate. The 25-year-old is hitting .323 in 120 games, complemented by 32 doubles, a triple, 25 home runs, and 80 RBIs. Guerrero Jr. was sensational in a recent three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels, going 6-for-14 with two home runs and four RBIs. His performance against the Baltimore Orioles on August 8 was another highlight, as he notched three hits, including a double, triple, and home run, driving in four runs in a 7-6 win.
Projections and Expectations
According to the SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every MLB game 10,000 times, the Cubs are slight favorites. The model has been on a remarkable 25-13 roll with top-rated run-line picks, dating back to last season. Both teams will be looking to disrupt the projections in what promises to be an entertaining and unpredictable encounter.
For fans and analysts alike, the game offers an intriguing blend of young talent, seasoned veterans, and unpredictable twists that only baseball can deliver. As both teams take the field, all eyes will be on Wrigley to see if the Blue Jays extend their streak or if the Cubs can find a much-needed victory.