Pirates vs. Cubs 9/3/24 – Summer with its bright sunny days and air conditioners is over and again time to focus on baseball. Here Comes the Pittsburgh Pirates with supportive fans that traveled from the cheerful city of Pittsburgh. The Pirates are at a record of 64-73 whereas The Cubs are at a 71-67 record. Tuesday’s game is simply wonderful, teams had ups and downs relative to these games so this makes this game very important because of the nearing end of league stages. Considering that there are some fireworks shooting up from both teams’ form and statistics, it would be nice to consider this game for those hoping to get the best multi-handicapper picks.
Pirates vs. Cubs 9/3/24 Odds and Game Info |
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| When: | Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at 7:40 PM ET |
| Where: | Wrigley Field |
| Watch: | MARQ, ESPN+, MLB.TV |
| Pirates Odds: | -103 |
| Cubs Odds: | -115 |
| Total Line: | 6.5 |
Pirates (64-73) vs. Cubs (71-67)
The Pittsburgh Pirates, often regarded as the underdogs in baseball, have posted some intriguing numbers this season. Their hitting has been lacklustre, with a .236 batting average, 577 runs scored, and 136 home runs. Their on-base percentage stands at .302, highlighting their inconsistent ability to pose a significant threat to opponents’ defenses. On the pitching side, the team’s ERA is 4.13, indicating moments of strength but also periods of struggle that have contributed to their losses. As the Yankees-Rangers game takes center stage in today’s MLB lineup, the Pirates face similar challenges in refining their defensive strategies to improve their chances in upcoming matchups.
On the other hand, the Chicago Cubs have managed to maintain a slightly more respectable record. The team has achieved a batting average of .240 and a solid slugging percentage of .394, supported by 146 home runs contributing to their 629 total runs this season. Their pitching staff, with an ERA of 3.80 and a WHIP of 1.25, has been consistent, giving them an edge in close contests. As they prepare for their own challenges, much like the Dodgers and Angels in their upcoming matchup, the Cubs must capitalize on their strengths to sustain their momentum within the division.
Paul Skenes (8-2, 2.23 ERA) vs. Kyle Hendricks (3-10, 6.75 ERA)
Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has had a great performance with an ERA of 2.23 and a WHIP of 0.95. In 109 innings of action, Skenes has managed to strike out 136 batters showing that he can pull off an exquisite performance on the mound. Thus far, he has been the bright spot for The Steel City and might be the key player in the game scheduled later in the day. With a similar trend, Skenes stands a good chance of being able to shut down the Cubs’ hitters owing to his low walk and home run rates.
Cubs pitcher Kyle Hendricks has not enjoyed a very good season, as evidenced by his 6.75 ERA and 1.53 WHIP in 102.2 innings. Basing on both home and away matches, this season has seen him give up 125 hits along with 20 home runs and there is a pattern of over the struggle with flooding hits & homers. Like he always does, Hendricks is going to have to rely on his ability and this time maybe change his strategy slightly in order to help him deal with the hungry Pirates hitters who are ready to pounce on any weakness.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Cubs +1.5 -204, Total Odds: Total Odds: 6.5
Considering the current betting odds, the Cubs, despite their recent home record struggles against Pittsburgh, are favored slightly in the spread. The total set at 6.5 and leaning towards the OVER reflects expectations of a potentially high-scoring game, primarily due to the volatile pitching matchup and the Cubs’ stronger offensive stats.
Pirates Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh’s last 7 games, and they are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games. Their road performance has been particularly poor, with a 3-11 SU record in their last 14 games away from home. These trends suggest that while they can score, maintaining leads and closing out games has been challenging.
Cubs Betting Trends
The Cubs have seen the total go OVER in 6 of their last 7 games, and they are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games overall. Their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities has been notable, except in their matchups at home against the Pirates where they are 1-6 SU in their last 7 games. These statistics suggest a strong current form but a peculiar vulnerability at home against Pittsburgh.
Pirates vs. Cubs 9/3/24 Betting Picks
Judging by trends and analysis, the Cubs season looks promising, and today’s pitching matchup favors them. Hence, they might be the safer bet. But considering the trends and Skenes’ pitching history, perhaps the Pirates can be that team that pulls the upset. With both clubs playing in shootouts lately, the line of most total combinations going OVER the total seems fair.
For the fans, there is no doubt that there is a potential value in the spread on the Cubs, and the total looks attractive as well. Some prop bets could be made, including players, such as betting on how many strikeouts Paul Skenes would record. For casual fans looking for free daily baseball tips, pay attention to line movements and pitcher warm-up reports before the game for more tips.