September 29 03:20 MLB Chicago Cubs Cincinnati
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The Chicago Cubs, who achieved a narrow victory thanks to a strong performance from their pitching staff, will have Kyle Hendricks (4 wins, 12 losses, 6.28 ERA) aiming for his fifth win of the season. After a difficult outing on the 22nd against Washington at home, where he allowed 9 hits and 4 runs over 5.1 innings, Hendricks has been rather unpredictable on the mound. He had a solid 5-inning, 3-run win during the Cincinnati away game earlier this year, but considering his daytime ERA of 7.04, expectations for this game seem low. Although the Cubs won their previous game, their lineup struggled to score more than a single run against Nick Martinez, continuing a jinx of poor performance late in the season. The lack of offensive power in Seiya Suzuki's absence is something that needs to be addressed next year. The bullpen, having erased 2 innings, is pushing through strongly towards the end.
The Cincinnati Reds, who lost closely due to their batting slump, will have Brett Boulter (2 wins, 2 losses, 1.40 ERA) challenging for his third win of the season. On the 22nd against Pittsburgh at home, Boulter pitched 5 scoreless innings for a win, successfully overcoming a prior poor outing in Minnesota. Currently, Boulter appears to be a pitcher capable of delivering 5 innings effectively regardless of home or away. The Cincinnati lineup was shut out, managing only 4 hits against Taillon in the previous game, and their recent slump seems to be extending. They are clearly showing their limitations when home runs are not present. At least Martinez's complete game minimized the bullpen's workload.
Both teams are in a situation where their recent hitting cannot be considered good by any stretch. It is likely that this trend will continue into this game. However, Hendricks has notable weaknesses in day games and has been inconsistent on the mound, which could decide the outcome of this match. The Reds, starting with an edge, are closer to victory.
Predicted score: 4-3, Cincinnati wins
Handicap: Cincinnati wins
Over/Under: Under