Detroit Tigers vs. Chicago Cubs 8/22/24 – An intriguing match between the Detroit Tigers (62-65) and the Chicago Cubs (62-65) is another unfold in this MLB season. These two teams have the same records going into the game, making it a pulsating game. ESPN+ is set to air this midweek game which would not only determine who can hang on to it by August but also impact their near future at post-season level. Moreover, there are free baseball picks for fans that like following these strategic games with upsets potential.
Detroit Tigers vs. Chicago Cubs 8/22/24 Game Info |
|
| When: | Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 2:20 PM ET |
| Where: | Wrigley Field |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | MLB.TV |
Detroit Tigers (62-65) vs. Chicago Cubs (62-65)
In this particular season, Detroit Tigers haven’t been one of the best offensive teams with a .231 Batting Average, 519 runs and 126 home runs. Contrarily, their pitching staff has an ERA of 3.82 and WHIP of 1.19 led by Brant Hurter. Comparatively, they’re slightly lower in terms of slugging percentage than the Cub’s (.383). It is worth noting that other than a couple of exceptions, such as the Reds vs Pirates game where both teams have had similar problems in maintaining stability on the club level indicating greater issues involving teams within that division in the league table.
On the other hand, Chicago Cubs batting average was somewhat better recorded at .234 compared to Tigers while they were also higher in on-base percentage. Complementing these numbers are high homers figures since they have all hit well over one hundred times during the year (Tigers Season HR Leaders | Detroit Tigers). Similar to today’s match between the Rays vs Athletics game, it would be interesting if these two sides come up against each other illustrating how such lineups can exploit their firepower when pitted against similar arms.
Brant Hurter (1-1, 3.57 ERA) vs. Justin Steele (3-5, 3.1 ERA)
A sign of Brant Hurter’s promise in the Tigers starting rotation is a 3.57 ERA and an incredibly low 0.79 WHIP over 17.2 innings pitched. Although his innings have been few, only one walk has been surrendered by him this term and three home runs. He might be a game changer with this season’s ability to minimize walks (one so far) and homers (three allowed). This low WHIP also suggests control that can be crucial for managing Cubs batters who frequently get on base.
However, for the opponents, Justin Steele is an experienced player with a 3.1 ERA across 116 innings played. Steel’s strength is striking out as he was able to record 115 Ks for a great rate of 1.09 WHIP. Despite having more losses than victories this season, his numbers suggest a pitcher who performs well under pressure and better than his win-loss numbers show him to be as shown by his stats. His capability to strike out batters may be particularly crucial against the inconsistent Tigers lineup.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Chicago Cubs -1.5 (+110), Total Odds: 7.5
The present betting possibilities put the Cubs ahead, though only slightly, in terms of moneyline and spreading. These may show a confidence in their home-field advantage and offensive stats that are slightly superior to the others. The total is set at 7.5 with an over preference showing an expectation for some runs to be scored, although both teams have shown a tendency for games going under.
Detroit Tigers Betting Trends
The recent performance of Detroit suggests a strong trend in terms of games going UNDER the total, with 6 of their last 7 games falling below this line. Nevertheless, their record of 7-2 SU in their last 9 games suggest that they are finding ways to win, helped by good away form against the Cubs historically (10-4 SU in their last 14 games at Wrigley Field).
Chicago Cubs Betting Trends
On the other hand, the Cubs split their games in favor of OVER with respect to their last two meetings against Tigers. At home, they have been string (5-2 SU) over the past 7 outings; however, a look at Wrigley shows a different scenario in terms of Detroit who has beaten them 10 times out of the latest 14 matches.
Detroit Tigers vs. Chicago Cubs 8/22/24 Betting Picks
After taking into account the aggregate numbers and patterns, the Cubs have a slight edge in this competition because of their home record and also based on pitching matchup. However, the Tigers are coming off a big move over Wrigley and have traditionally enjoyed success at that venue, making them an interesting underdog play.
Prof sports analysis suggests a close one due to pitching performances and crucial at-bats. This could lead to lower scores than what is suggested by the odds, as Steele will likely be on mound with strikeout power for Cubs just as Hurter from Tigers attempts to keep everything steady.
Free Pick and Prediction: Chicago Cubs 4, Detroit Tigers 3.