Scuffling Cubs turn to Arrieta vs. Reds
While in no way prepared to send out a distress signal, the Cubs suddenly look quite vulnerable. Can the Reds step in and extend the North Siders’ recent skid?
Jake Arrieta’s presence on the hill might complicate matters. Chicago’s ace takes the hill in tonight’s series opener vs. Cincinnati, with a 7:10 p.m. ET first pitch at Great American Ball Park. Online sports book Bovada.lv gives the visiting club odds of -270 to prevail, while Bryan Price’s troops are regarded as +230 underdogs. The over/under run total currently sits at eight.
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The Cubbies just dropped two of three two to Miami, and leadoff man Dexter Fowler’s absence continues to be felt. If anyone is capable of turning the tide, though, it’s Arrieta. The righty boasts an MLB-best 0.24 ERA in evening games. He’s also 4-2 with a 2.81 ERA in six career starts against Cincy.
Dan Straily heads to the hill for the host squad. Suffice it to say, the Marshall product will be motivated to redeem himself after April’s meeting with Chicago. Straily barely got through 4 2/3 innings then, surrendering three runs and seven total baserunners.
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After a weekend-long salute to Pete Rose, the Reds could struggle from an energy standpoint in the early going. Look for the Cubs, who hold a 6-1 record this season vs. Cincinnati, to pounce accordingly. As a bonus, Arrieta shall leap to the head of the NL class in victories.
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