Cubs Host Blue Jays Amidst Streaks

The Chicago Cubs will be looking to turn things around when they face off against the Toronto Blue Jays this Friday afternoon at Wrigley Field. Chicago is currently struggling, having lost their last three games, while the Blue Jays are riding high on a three-game winning streak.

The Blue Jays, with a record of 57-64, have not had a great season on the road, going 28-33. In contrast, the Cubs, standing at 59-63, are still in the hunt for a Wild Card spot in the National League, being six games behind. They have performed fairly well in interleague play this season, with a record of 21-13.

The game is scheduled for a 2:20 p.m. ET first pitch, and the Cubs are favored to win, sitting at -114 on the money line. The total runs expected for the game is set at 10. Before you make any bets on this matchup, the SportsLine Projection Model, which has been successful with its run-line picks, is generating buzz.

On the mound for the Cubs will be right-hander Kyle Hendricks, who has struggled throughout the season with a 3-10 record and a 6.60 ERA. However, he’s shown improvement lately, allowing three or fewer earned runs in 12 of his last 14 outings. Right fielder Seiya Suzuki is one of the Cubs’ standout performers. He’s batting .266 with 19 doubles and 16 home runs this season, making significant contributions in recent games.

Second baseman Nico Hoerner also had a strong series against the Guardians, bringing in three hits, including a double, in his last outing. He’s been consistent lately, recording hits in seven of his last ten games and showing off his prowess with several multi-hit games this season.

For the Blue Jays, rookie right-hander José Rodríguez will be taking the mound. While his record stands at 1-5 with a 3.60 ERA, he has displayed promising skills, striking out 52 batters over 50 innings this season. His last outing was commendable despite suffering a narrow defeat against the Yankees.

Toronto’s top hitter, first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., is having an impressive season, batting .323 with 25 home runs and 80 RBIs. He has been quite resourceful in recent games, making notable contributions against tough pitching.

As anticipation builds for the matchup, the SportsLine model suggests leaning toward the Under for the total runs, projecting 8.8 combined runs in the contest.