The St. Louis Cardinals managed to claw their way to a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday, pulling themselves back up after dropping the first two games in what has been an intense National League Central showdown.
Miles Mikolas, despite a season ERA of 4.99, demonstrated resilience on the mound, improving his record to an even 8-8. Mikolas's tenacity helped stabilize the Cardinals' performance, offering them the momentum they needed to turn the tide in their favor.
In contrast, the Cubs' Justin Steele, who holds a 2-5 record and a 3.38 ERA, did not fare as well, allowing the Cardinals to seize critical opportunities throughout the game. The tension was palpable as both teams fought tooth and nail, embodying the fierce competitiveness that defines their rivalry.
Prime Time Showdown
As the series draws to a close, all eyes are on Sunday's deciding game, scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET on Sunday Night Baseball. The betting odds are leaning toward Chicago, with bookmakers listing the Cubs as favorites at -148 on the money line. Yet, the unpredictability of baseball means anything can happen, especially in such a closely contested series.
The over/under for total runs in this highly anticipated matchup is set at 9, reflecting the balanced offensive and defensive capabilities of both teams. Notably, the Cubs' total runs have hit the Under in 25 of their last 38 home games, a statistic that suggests a potentially lower-scoring game than expected.
The Cardinals, on the other hand, have managed to cover the run line in nine of their last 11 away games, demonstrating their strong performance on the road and adding an extra layer of intrigue to Sunday's clash.
Key Players in Focus
Several players have been central to the narrative of this series. Cody Bellinger, with a .276 batting average, 11 home runs, and 42 RBIs, has been a consistent performer for the Cubs. His recent outing against the Cardinals saw him go 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run, underscoring his ability to deliver under pressure.
Ian Happ has also been a pivotal figure for Chicago, boasting a .228 average with 17 home runs and a team-leading 62 RBIs. His standout performance against the Cincinnati Reds on July 31, where he went 3-for-4 with a double and a homer, driving in two runs, showcased his knack for clutch hitting.
On the Cardinals' side, Alec Burleson has been instrumental with a .278 batting average, 19 home runs, and 64 RBIs. His contribution in a previous win over the Rangers on July 31, where he went 1-for-4 driving in two runs, highlighted his impact on the Cardinals' offense.
Nolan Arenado, another key player for St. Louis, holds a .266 batting average with 11 home runs and 48 RBIs. Arenado's .705 on-base percentage complements his batting prowess, making him a formidable presence at the plate. His recent performance, going 2-for-4 with two singles and an RBI on Thursday, further solidifies his role as a cornerstone of the Cardinals' lineup.
Looking Ahead to the Decider
Sunday's game promises to be a spectacle as the Cardinals and Cubs face off in the series finale. With both teams showcasing formidable talent and a history of close contests, fans can look forward to an electrifying encounter. Whether the Cubs will live up to their favored status or the Cardinals will continue their road dominance, only time will tell. One thing is certain: baseball lovers are in for a treat as these two teams leave it all on the field.