As the stage of Major League Baseball turns towards its final phase, Washington Nationals (68-86) are playing against Chicago Cubs (79-75) in one of the positing managerial battles of the season. The particular contest is set for September 21, 2024, at the Wrigley Field, and showcases two teams, each of whom has been on a different path this season. For sports geeks and gamblers, it’s critical to know how this game would unfold, particularly for those interested in paid predictions to help develop better betting plans.
Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs 9/21/24 Game Info and Odds |
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| When: | Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 2:20 PM ET |
| Where: | Wrigley Field |
| Watch: | MASN2, ESPN, MLB.TV |
| Nationals odds: | +113 Moneyline |
| Cubs odds: | -133 Moneyline |
| Total Line: | 8.5 |
Washington Nationals (68-86) vs. Chicago Cubs (79-75)
Nevertheless, the Washington Nationals possess the qualities of a team that might spring surprises. Recent performances, however, have not been encouraging. Over the past five games, the Nationals put up a fierce contest even against tough opponents including the last two back-to-back games with the cubs where beaten narrowly by 1-3 and 6-7 in which even though the competitive instincts were present more than the will to close out the games was on display. This series followed a rough set against the New York Mets where they were outscored significantly, including a 0-10 drubbing, reflecting their difficulties in maintaining pitching and batting consistency.
| Washington Nationals Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 20, 2024 | CHC | 1-3 | Lose |
| Sep 19, 2024 | CHC | 6-7 | Lose |
| Sep 18, 2024 | NYM | 0-10 | Lose |
| Sep 17, 2024 | NYM | 1-10 | Lose |
| Sep 16, 2024 | NYM | 1-2 | Lose |
Conversely, the Chicago Cubs are looking to solidify their standing and push towards a postseason berth. The Cubs’ recent performance, marked by a series of victories against the Nationals and a mixed bag against the Oakland Athletics, shows a team finding ways to win crucial games. Their resilience was particularly on display during a nail-biter 7-6 victory over the Nationals, demonstrating their capability to edge out in close contests. However, losses against Oakland suggest some vulnerability, particularly in their bullpen’s ability to preserve leads late in the game.
| Chicago Cubs Last 5 Games | |||
| Date | Opponent | Score | SU |
| Sep 20, 2024 | WSH | 3-1 | Win |
| Sep 19, 2024 | WSH | 7-6 | Win |
| Sep 18, 2024 | OAK | 3-5 | Lose |
| Sep 17, 2024 | OAK | 3-4 | Lose |
| Sep 16, 2024 | OAK | 9-2 | Win |
MacKenzie Gore (9-12, 4.17 ERA) vs. Kyle Hendricks (4-11, 6.25 ERA)
The season of MacKenzie Gore’s time with the Nationals has had its highs and lows. Gore has displayed flashes of brilliance, finishing with a win-loss of 9-12, an earned run average of 4.17, and an impressive 163 strikeouts over 153.1 innings. This is evidenced by the 61 walks he’s given, which also means he is susceptible to large innings which a team like the Cubs may take advantage of. His strikeouts might prove invaluable to the chances of the Nationals, but a WHIP of 1.49 begs the question about his reliability.
Even with a very difficult season with a 6.25 ERA and a 1.49 WHIP, the Cubs pitcher Kyle Hendricks is still an important component of rotation. His experience might, in particular, come in handy in such encounters which can determine the playoff standings. Hendricks has been especially battered by the long ball, having hit the ball out of the park 21 times this season, which could be an issue going up against a Nationals team that would be looking to take full advantage of any opportunity.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Chicago Cubs -133, Total Odds: 8.5
The odds seem to favor the Cubs mainly due to their better season and the advantage of playing at Wrigley Field. Given the total line set at over 8.5, the odds makers have clearly stated that this will not be a low-scoring stab, probably as a result of the weaknesses in the pitching departments of both teams.
Washington Nationals Betting Trends
The Nationals’ situation is beginning to look bleak as the team has managed to win just a couple of games out of their last several outings while dropping the rest. In particular, the trends of the last five games show a 0-5 SU and certain failures against the Cubs which can be screaming for more institutional investors looking in the direction of this franchise.
Chicago Cubs Betting Trends
The Cubs have picked it up of late posting a 4-2 SU record over their last six games while continuing their steady streak at home with wins over the Nationals. The betting trends remain very positive for the Cubs especially as they tend to carry the day in close contests, as has been the case in their recent outings against Washington.
Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs 9/21/24 Betting Picks
Based on recent performance and advanced metrics, the Cubs appear to be the safer choice, especially since they will be playing at home. Difficulties while closing games against the Nationals may prove to be an advantage to the side. On the other hand, it is better to bet on total over, as pitching has not been great for both teams and there is a chance that the game produces more runs than the odds provide for.
Based on how the Cubs have been playing of late, it may be worthwhile for some people to consider backing the Cubs to cover the spread, especially for games that are likely to have other interesting prop bets or scenarios as options. But then, for the best free MLB tips, trying to look for any tell in the starting pitchers’ looks as well as performances in the early games can also help to better tell how the game is going to be.