Ladies and Gentlemen, brace yourselves for a fantastic showdown as the St. Louis Cardinals fly into Wrigley Field, aiming to take on the holy grail, Chicago Cubs.
Wrigley Field, an arena made for competitions of the highest caliber, with a park factor that marginally leans toward the pitcher's advantage, will witness the duel between two formidable starting pitchers - the Cardinals' very own Miles Mikolas, who hasn’t had his best season on the mound, and the surprising revelation for the Cubs, Justin Steele. Steele has shown some impeccable form this season, possessing an ERA of 3.75 and a solid 9 strikeouts per nine innings. In comparison, Mikolas' figures of 5.12 ERA and 6.2 K/9 seem like they left a lot to be desired.
Now let's discuss the big guns. When it comes to the Cardinals, Mike Siani has been on fire with a .333 batting average and showing off his quicksilver feet with 5 stolen bases. Nolan Arenado, too, has been in good knick with 4 homers and an average of .286. Look out for Alec Burleson, who boasts a .274 average and an impressive 24 RBIs. On the Cubs' end, David Bote might not be knocking them out of the park, but his .350 average is certainly affecting games. Let's not forget Seiya Suzuki, his figures of .295 average and 19 RBIs show why he's integral to the Cub's game plan.
Looking at the past skirmishes between these two, it's been a seesaw affair with hair's breadth victories. Remembering their recent encounters, I can't help mentioning the close Cardinals' win over the Cubs by just a run earlier this month.
Reviewing the regular season records, it's a close game with the Cardinals just a nose ahead at 57-54, compared to the Cubs' 54-59. Recent results show similar form from both teams.
Now, for my prediction. Taking into account all these factors including form, venue, and player stats, it's going to be a tough call. But with better form in their recent outings, and with a pitching advantage on their side, I believe the Cubs will edge out this encounter.
Albert’s Prediction: Chicago Cubs by 2.