With the MLB regular season coming to an end, the meeting between the Oakland Athletics (66-86) and the Chicago Cubs (77-74) on Wednesday will be real fun to watch. This game which takes place at Petco Park at 2:20 PM ET emphasizes the variance in the seasons of the two teams with Oakland at the boot of their division and Chicago above the .500 mark. Given the stakes of this matchup together with its premium insights, no fans and no bettors will be left unimpressed with the fierce action that awaits.
Oakland Athletics vs. Chicago Cubs 9/18/24 Game Info and Odds |
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| When: | Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 2:20 PM ET |
| Where: | Petco Park |
| Watch: | MLBN, ESPN, MLB.TV |
| Athletics odds: | +122 Moneyline |
| Cubs odds: | -145 Moneyline |
| Total Line: | 8 |
Oakland Athletics (66-86) vs. Chicago Cubs (77-74)
The Athletics’ season has been marred by inconsistency, which is reflected in their subpar standing. Their recent performances, however, shed some light on their current form. In their last five games, the Athletics have struggled, managing only one victory against the Chicago White Sox while succumbing in their other matches, including a significant 2-9 defeat to the Cubs just two days prior.
| Oakland Athletics Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 16, 2024 | CHC | 2-9 | Lose |
| Sep 15, 2024 | CHW | 3-4 | Lose |
| Sep 14, 2024 | CHW | 6-7 | Lose |
| Sep 13, 2024 | CHW | 2-0 | Win |
| Sep 12, 2024 | HOU | 3-6 | Lose |
Conversely, the Cubs have displayed a bit more resilience in their recent outings, managing a couple of wins against both Colorado and Oakland. These games reflect a certain tenacity, particularly in their ability to bounce back from losses, a quality that could prove crucial as they aim for a strong finish to the season.
| Chicago Cubs Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 16, 2024 | OAK | 9-2 | Win |
| Sep 15, 2024 | COL | 6-2 | Win |
| Sep 14, 2024 | COL | 5-6 | Lose |
| Sep 13, 2024 | COL | 5-9 | Lose |
| Sep 11, 2024 | LA | 8-10 | Lose |
Brady Basso (1-0, 1.23 ERA) vs. Justin Steele (5-5, 3.09 ERA)
The pitching matchup creates an interesting subplot, owing to Oakland’s Brady Basso pitching a remarkable 1.23 ERA going into the game against the more experienced Chicago’s Justin Steele. Though working only a few innings, Basso has demonstrated the capacity to keep his WHIP low while preventing runs. If he can complete this task, the Cubs hitters will score just one run – it’s as plain and simple as that.
The dramatic season of Justin Steele has turned out to be rather dull if not boring. Steele has a good ERA and WHIP for 128 innings pitched as he is sturdy and can virtually control any lineup to some extent. His knowledge and capability of getting hitters out would help in going through the Athletics order
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Chicago Cubs -1.5 (+147), Total Odds: 8
The betting odds suggest a slight tilt towards the Cubs, with the spread offering a cushion for those backing Chicago. The total at 8 points anticipates a moderately high-scoring affair, influenced perhaps by recent outings where both teams have seen their share of runs.
Oakland Athletics Betting Trends
The total going OVER in 13 of the last 20 matches played by Oakland emphasizes the fact that there has been increased scoring in the contests owing to their 4.35 ERA pitching staff. They have been even less satisfactory in there against the spread performance in recent times where they have a recent losing record than they do winning.
Chicago Cubs Betting Trends
Chicago has been recently showing a penchant for OVER the total especially when at home however this has changed with four out of the last five games being UNDER total. This shift might be down to a more sound approach to pitching and perhaps even more correct game plans.
Oakland Athletics vs. Chicago Cubs 9/18/24 Betting Picks
Taking into account the statistical and based on the current betting trends, it is safe to say that this matchup is inclined toward the Chicago Cubs given their recent consistency and the robust pitching from Justin Steele. The history and Steele’s skill indicate the likelihood of the Cubs dictating the pace of the game and winning it.
After weighing the factors of the designated pitchers and the more recent scoring trends that Petco Park has covered, the most prudent strategy is to bet on the Cub’s success in this game. Also, the under on total runs is a good option so it can be rated as one of the best free MLB betting picks for this game.