Teams trending in opposite directions meet in an intriguing interleague matchup when the Toronto Blue Jays face the Chicago Cubs on Friday afternoon.
The Blue Jays, who have won three consecutive games, aim to continue their winning streak against a struggling Cubs team that has dropped its last three. Coming off a series of strong performances, Toronto (57-64) has surged recently, winning six of their last 10 games. Their form contrasts sharply with that of the Cubs (59-63), who are fourth in the National League Central and possess a lackluster 26-28 record during day games.
A Historical Edge
In their all-time series, the Blue Jays lead by a narrow margin of 11-10. However, the Cubs have enjoyed more success on their home turf, boasting a 4-2 record at Wrigley Field. This factor could play a vital role when the first pitch is thrown at 2:20 p.m. ET from the storied Chicago ballpark.
Oddsmakers and Projections
Chicago enters the contest as a slight favorite, carrying a -114 money line according to the latest Blue Jays vs. Cubs odds. The over/under for the game is set at 10 runs, indicating expectations for a moderately high-scoring affair. The SportsLine Projection Model, known for its rigorous simulations, enters Week 21 of the MLB season with a 25-13 roll on top-rated run-line picks.
Pitching Matchup
Chicago will send right-hander Kyle Hendricks (3-10, 6.60 ERA) to the mound. Despite a rocky season overall, Hendricks has pitched commendably of late. He has allowed three or fewer earned runs in 12 of his last 14 appearances, hinting at a potential return to form. His most recent outing saw him pitch six steady innings in a 3-0 loss to the Minnesota Twins, allowing five hits and two earned runs while striking out five. Another noteworthy performance came on July 12, when Hendricks threw seven shutout innings, conceding just five hits and one walk in a 5-1 victory at St. Louis.
In contrast, the Blue Jays will counter with right-hander Yariel Rodriguez (1-5, 3.60 ERA). Rodriguez has had a mixed season but displayed promise in his last outing despite a 1-0 loss to the Oakland Athletics. In that game, Rodriguez pitched 5.2 innings and allowed just one earned run, striking out five and giving up only five hits.
Key Hitters
The Cubs will look to center fielder Cody Bellinger to spark their offense. In 92 games this season, Bellinger has hit .276, tallying 16 doubles, one triple, 12 homers, and 46 RBIs. He enters the game with hits in seven of the past 10 games. Bellinger also boasts a .318 career average against the Blue Jays, with three doubles, one homer, and six RBIs.
First baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains one of Toronto’s top hitters. The 25-year-old is hitting .323 over 120 games, with 32 doubles, one triple, 25 homers, and 80 RBIs. Guerrero Jr. was particularly impressive in a recent series against the Los Angeles Angels, going 6-for-14 with two homers and four RBIs. He also illuminated the box score against the Baltimore Orioles on August 8, collecting three hits that included a double, triple, and homer, driving in four runs in a 7-6 win.
This interleague matchup promises to be a fascinating clash between a resurgent Toronto squad and a Chicago team grappling to recapture its form. With both teams featuring standout performers and seasoned pitchers planned to start, fans can expect a competitive contest at Wrigley Field.