Peralta, Brewers vie to even series with Cubs
Jason Hammel snapped a two-game losing streak with his last outing. Now, he can prey on one of the most vulnerable teams in the majors.
The righty will lead the Cubs into battle against Milwaukee tonight, with an 8:10 p.m. ET first pitch at Miller Park. Oddsmakers at online sports book Bovada.lv lean toward the National League Central pacesetters, whereas Craig Counsell’s club represents a +155 underdog. The over/under run total sits at nine.
Chicago took yesterday’s series opener, 7-2, thanks largely to contributions from a pair of reserves. Catcher Miguel Montero and outfielder Chris Coghlan combined for four hits and three RBIs, carrying the offensive load while superstars like Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant were held in check. Kyle Hendricks also twirled six superb innings, improving to 14-7 on the campaign.
This evening, Hammel’s a near lock to prolong the mound magic. The veteran is 10-1 with a 2.50 ERA in 14 career appearances vs. the Brewers. Most recently, he limited the Pirates to one run on three base knocks across six frames.
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Craig Counsell answers with Wily Peralta, who’s looked markedly better over the past month. On Aug. 30, the Dominican Republic native tossed a season-high seven innings against St. Louis. Peralta permitted just a run and struck out 10 in that top-notch duel with Adam Wainwright.
In a matter of hours, though, the 27-year-old faces an entirely different beast. Chicago has captured 16 of its last 21 contests. Hammel’s presence alone promises to keep the good times rolling in the Badger State.
TUESDAY MLB FREE PICK: CUBS/BREWERS UNDER 9 RUNS