A’s yearn to snap Cubs’ long winning streak
Third-year hurler Kyle Hendricks boasts the second-lowest ERA in the National League at 2.22. Most of the ink, though, seem reserved for his older colleagues in the Cubs’ rotation.
These days, there’s room for everybody to feel the love. Red-hot Chicago wraps up a three-game set vs. Oakland this afternoon, with a 4:05 p.m. ET first pitch in the Golden State. Online sports book BetDSI gives Hendricks & Co. odds of -160 to complete the sweep. The Athletics, on the other hand, are +140 underdogs.
The class of the senior circuit blanked Bob Melvin’s team last night, 4-0, as Jake Arrieta delivered a vintage performance on the hill. Of course, Hendricks continues to craft an elite campaign of his own. He’s 6-1 with a 1.04 ERA, 47 punchouts and 16 walks since June 19. The Newport Beach native even tossed a shutout against Miami nearly a week ago.
Manager Joe Maddon often cites Hendricks’ improved fastball command as the main reason for the righty’s 2016 surge. Oakland’s would-be answer in a short while is still trying to master such a skill. Sean Manaea possesses lights-out stuff, as evidenced by his 79 Ks through 92 1/3 frames. Walks, however, frequently prevent him from venturing deep into contests. He’s 0-1 with a 2.51 ERA over his past five outings.
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Having reeled off six wins in a row, the Cubbies could easily treat the matinee in question as an opportunity to rest some regulars and prepare for St. Louis ahead. Then again, why mess with brilliance? Third baseman Kris Bryant, who rakes lefties at a .306 clip, represents the visitors’ pick to click on the offensive side. He’ll push the band of mashers to improve to 32-24 away from Wrigley Field.
SUNDAY MLB FREE PICK: CUBS/ATHLETICS OVER 8 RUNS