The Pirates picked up a rare win yesterday, but I’m keen to fade them again here.
Not only are the Cubs the considerably better side, they’ve also got a clear motivational edge here.
Pittsburgh are firmly out of playoff contention at 16-39 and aren’t really invested in finishing out the season.
Compare that to a Chicago side that is currently 4th in the National League and battling intently for playoff seeding.
Despite a slip up yesterday, the Cubs are still winning this series and have been in good recent form.
Their pitching staff should have a field day against an anaemic Pittsburgh offence and I’d expect their batters to score enough runs to get the win.
Another spot where I’m going for the same pick as yesterday, taking St Louis as $1.77 road favourites.
They won handily in a very similar spot yesterday and I think the same matchup advantages exist today.
First things first, there’s a clear motivation discrepancy between these two sides.
Kansas City are all but eliminated from playoff contention, while St Louis are furiously fighting for a spot in the National League.
They are 2 games up on the Giants for a playoff spot and I think they’ll be very motivated to extend that lead.
I also like the pitching matchup for them today and would expect a better outing from Carlos Martinez.
Their strong batting lineup should be able to get after Danny Duffy of KC here, which will likely prove the difference.