Toronto Blue Jays vs. Chicago Cubs 8/18/24 – In the unfolding of the MLB season, the Toronto Blue Jays are scheduled to visit the Chicago Cubs in an exciting Sunday game at Wrigley Field. At almost a 500 record of 61-63, Cubs are only slightly ahead of Blue Jays who have 57-66. Given that both teams are trying hard to get back into the race and save their seasons with just one third remaining, this contest among best MLB free picks guarantees a high level of strategy and skill expected in late season games with playoff implications.
Toronto Blue Jays vs. Chicago Cubs 8/18/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Sunday, August 18, 2024 at 2:20 PM ET |
| Where: | Wrigley Field |
| TV: | |
| Stream: | MLB.TV |
Toronto Blue Jays (57-66) vs. Chicago Cubs (61-63)
The Toronto Blue Jays this season have been struggling with inconsistency but have shown moments of brilliance embedded in a sea of mediocrity. They had an average batting rate of .239 and 114 home runs, which was supported by an on base percentage of 312 that was just about mediocre. Their away performances have been typically unpredictable like today’s Twins vs. Rangers encounter, this is indicative of the instability inherent in their style of play.
On the other hand, the Chicago Cubs come into this series with a slightly better position and a more consistent performance lately. The two teams have close records for the last ten games played; it is difficult to differentiate their standings at .235 against .234 batting averages but surpassing Blue Jays in terms of home runs and slugging percentages. While Wrigley Field has witnessed some fight backs from the Cubs, it is too early to conclude anything yet judging from how they are playing the Padres-Rockies game tonight.
Bowden Francis (5-3, 4.92 ERA) vs. Shota Imanaga (9-2, 3.16 ERA)
Over the span of many innings pitched, Bowden Francis has had an ERA of 4.92 which indicates a confusing season for him. He kills himself through strikeouts and giving up home runs that show vulnerabilities especially when facing a Cubs lineup that always looks for mistakes in pitchers. The outcome of today’s game will depend on how well he controls the early innings and handles power hitters as he faces Chicago.
On the other hand, Shota Imanaga starts off with an amazing 9-2 record, and his earned run average is quite impressive at 3.16. As evidenced by his low WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) of 1.08 and his high strikeout rate, he is one formidable pitcher to reckon with in this game. His ability to negate batters may prove decisive in today’s game; moreover, his strategic depth throughout each inning could pay dividends for the Cubs playoff hopes.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Chicago Cubs -1.5 +134, Total Odds: 7
The betting odds reflect a tilt towards the Cubs, especially considering their -167 moneyline compared to the Blue Jays’ +141. The spread at -1.5 for the Cubs with a total over/under of 7 runs indicates expectations of a relatively tight but higher-scoring game, possibly driven by both teams’ recent over trends and the pitchers’ profiles.
Toronto Blue Jays Betting Trends
Toronto’s recent form reveals a troubling trend, with only 1 win in their last 6 matchups against the Cubs, including a stark 0-6 record when playing at Wrigley. Their road games have predominantly seen high-scoring affairs, with totals going over in 12 of the last 17 games. These trends might suggest a defensive struggle but an ability to put runs on the board, particularly against National League teams.
Chicago Cubs Betting Trends
The Cubs, on the other hand, have been strong at home, winning 5 of their last 6 games in their ballpark. Their overall 10-5 record in the last 15 games speaks to a gaining momentum, which might be leveraged further in this home game where they have historically dominated the Blue Jays, maintaining a 6-0 streak in recent encounters.
Toronto Blue Jays vs. Chicago Cubs 8/18/24 Betting Picks
Factoring in its present form and historical displays, my choice sways towards the Cubs to cover. Given the pitching match-ups, as well as home field advantage and positive momentum that are on their side, I’d pick the Cubs instead of Toronto who may cause a number of upsets. With both teams having shown offensive capabilities and the Blue Jays’ pitching volatility, this game can easily surpass the total projection of 7 runs.
Those looking for multi-handicapper tips should consider other bets such as player prop bets especially strikeouts for Imanaga and RBI chances for hitters from Cubs which could also add value. Such alternatives enable one to adopt a more subtle approach to a game that may appear predictable in other aspects.