Chicago is hoping they left some offense in the tank heading into the August 27th Cubs at Pirates betting matchup. The North Siders had a season high 21 hits and 18 runs in Monday’s 18-8 victory at PNC Park. Chicago (65-65) cruised to victory at -100 on Monday, with only a slight price increase to -120 for game two.
The last place Pirates (62-69) have actually played well recently aside from Monday’s debacle, going 5-5 over their last 10 overall. Oddsmakers aren’t totally counting out the Bucs here, setting them at +100 for Tuesday’s meeting.
Why the Cubs Have Value on Tuesday
Chicago had balance in the series opener, with 7 players having multiple hit games. Dansby Swanson had a grand slam, Seiya Suzuki was 4-6, and the bottom of the Cubs order was especially good with Pete Crow-Armstrong and Miguel Amaya combining for a 7-10 night.
One big key to Chicago’s success on Monday was they stole 8 bases, their most in over 100 years. The Cubs scored 15 runs off the Pittsburgh bullpen and this miss Pirates ace Paul Skene on Tuesday as his scheduled start was moved back for Jared Jones, who is making his first start since July 3rd after suffering a lat injury.
The Cubs have value on Tuesday with Justin Steele (4-5, 3.07 ERA) on the hill. The Cubs have won all four of his appearances this month as the left-hander has sported a 1.66 ERA. Steele has allowed 2 ER or less in five of his last six.
Why the Pirates Have Value on Tuesday
Despite the lopsided loss on Monday, Pittsburgh had a decent offensive outing with 8 runs and 13 hits. Bryan Reynolds and Connor Joe each left the yard for the Bucs as the Pirates have now scored 7+ runs in three of their last five.
Steele has been Chicago’s best pitcher this season along with Shota Imanaga, but he’s no sure thing on Tuesday night. Steele has made three of four starts this month at home, and one of those was just 2.0 IP after multiple rain delays against Toronto. Steele’s last road start (0 ER) was against the last place White Sox and he gave up 5 ER in 5.0 IP in his previous away outing prior.
Jones is rusty after being on the IL but he had 2ER or less in four of his previous five before getting hurt. Jones went 6.0 IP in consecutive starts against the Cubs at the middle of May, a loss at home and a win on the road.
Free August 27th Cubs at Pirates Betting Pick
Chicago’s offense erupted on Monday, and one worry that always comes with is if they used up all their hits in that game. Jones is a real wild card pitching for the first time in nearly six weeks, giving Steele and the Cubs the edge here at a pretty decent price.
Free Pick: Cubs -120
