The Arizona Diamondbacks are gearing up for a crucial series on the road against the Chicago Cubs after the All-Star Break. The D-backs are currently 49-48, just 1.0 game behind in the NL Wild Card race. On the other hand, the Cubs are 2.5 games back, with several teams ahead of them in the standings.
July 3rd marked a turning point for the Cubs, who seemed destined to be sellers at the trade deadline with a 39-48 record. However, they bounced back with an 8-3 stretch, putting them back in contention for the Wild Card spot. The Diamondbacks also entered the break on a high note, winning 8 of their last 12 games.
The D-backs have a history of dampening the Cubs’ hopes, as seen in their dominant performance against Chicago last September, winning six of seven games to knock them out of the race.
Key Matchups:
Friday, July 19th, 11:20 A.M. MST, 1:20 P.M. CT
Ryne Nelson (6-6, 4.98 ERA) will take the mound for the Diamondbacks. Despite a strong recent performance, Nelson faces a tough challenge against the Cubs.
Justin Steele (2-3, 2.71 ERA) has been on fire for the Cubs, showcasing his dominance on the mound with impressive outings leading up to the All-Star break.
Saturday, July 20th, 4:15 P.M. MST, 6:15 CT
Zac Gallen (6-5, 3.87 ERA) will look to bounce back from a rough start against the Blue Jays, while Kyle Hendricks (2-7, 6.87 ERA) aims to redeem himself after a rocky season.
Sunday, July 21st, 11:20 A.M. MST, 1:20 P.M. CT
Brandon Pfaadt (4-6, 3.97 ERA) has emerged as a reliable arm for the D-backs, leading the team in innings and quality starts. Shota Imanaga (8-2, 2.97 ERA) has been a standout performer for the Cubs in his rookie season.
As for the offensive side, the Cubs have picked up the pace in July, scoring above their season average and boasting a solid team batting average and OPS. In contrast, the Diamondbacks have been consistent in scoring runs and excel in batting average and OPS with runners in scoring position.
Individual standouts for the Diamondbacks include Ketel Marte, Joc Pederson, and Christian Walker, who have been key contributors to the team’s success this season. On the pitching side, Hector
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Author : usa-news
Publish date : 2024-07-19 05:09:34
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