Division leaders over at the National League kick start a four-game series at Wrigley Field later tonight.
That’s the Washington Nationals and the Chicago Cubs, who are also two of the best all-around teams in the majors today. Which team will draw first blood in this series? Read on for more about this game. You can also check out our break down of Mets vs. Padres.
Joe Ross is looking to stay undefeated when he takes the mound later tonight opposite the offensively brilliant Cubs. Chicago obviously presents a big challenge for Ross, but the right-hander’s confidence level is so high right now, he’s unlikely to be daunted by anything that crosses his paths.
In four starts this season, Ross has compiled a 3-0 record to go with a 0.79 ERA and 0.97 WHIP. He produced a sterling performance in his most recent start, allowing just an earned run on six hits while fanning four batters across six innings of a 6-1 win over St. Louis on April 30.
Ross is also getting ample amount of run support. Washington’s offense is providing him with 6.75 RS/9—the most for any qualified starts on Washington’s pitching staff.
Daniel Murphy is wielding a hot bat right now, as the former Met is batting .333 (9-for-27) with a home run and five RBIs in his last seven games. Bryce Harper, meanwhile, is on a slump, as the 2015 National League MVP is hitting just .077/ .200/.077 in his last seven games also. Harper, however, has a career batting line of 9-for-27 (.333) with two home runs at Wrigley Field.
Washington is 7-3 in its last 10 games in Wrigley Field.
Betting on the Chicago Cubs (19-6)
Kyle Hendricks is finally going to toe the slab after a prolonged rest. Hendricks was supposed to take the mound on Sunday against the Braves, but a rainout made manager Joe Maddon to move the right-hander’s start to Thursday.
Hendricks is having a so-so season thus far, as he keeps a 1-2 record with a 3.52 ERA and 1.04 WHIP. It’s worth noting, though, that Hendricks has allowed just one homer across 23.0 total innings. His ability to induce lots of ground balls (59.7 GB%) paired with the Cubs’ above-average fielding would come in handy against a Washington side that ranks ninth in the majors in home runs and 13th in slugging percentage.
The trio of Dexter Fowler, Anthony Rizzo, and Kris Bryant will lead the Cubs’ offense that’s among the leaders in MLB in runs and batting average. Fowler has been terrific batting lead-off, as he’s currently hitting .352 with three home runs and 15 RBIs to go with five stolen bases. Rizzo and Bryant, meanwhile, are hitting .242 and .305 on the year, respectively.
The under is 5-0 in Hendricks last five home starts.
