Free MLB Picks Today: Chicago Cubs vs Cleveland Guardians 7/1/23

Marcus Stroman, one of this season’s toughest pitchers, is set to take the mound for the Chicago Cubs (38-42) as they host the Cleveland Guardians (39-42) at Wrigley Field on Saturday.

The Cubs took Friday’s series opener 10-1. Starter Justin Steele threw 6.1 scoreless innings for the win. Nico Hoerner went 3 for 4 with one run and two RBIs in the win. Nick Madrigal added a home run and two runs. Will Brennan was 1 for 4 with a solo home run for the Guardians.

ON THE MOUND

Tanner Bibee (4-2, 3.79 ERA) is slated to take the mound for Cleveland. The RHP allowed two runs (one earned) over six innings in his last start, a 4-2 road win over the Brewers on June 24.

He earned the win, giving up three hits while striking out seven and walking four. Righty Stroman (9-5, 2.47 ERA) is on the mound for Chicago. It’s his first appearance of the season against the Guardians.

In his last start on Sunday, Stroman took the loss on the road against the Cardinals. He threw 3.1 innings and gave up six runs (3 ER) on eight hits, striking out two and walking one in the 7-5 defeat. The right-hander ranks second in the NL in ERA and tied for third in wins.

AT THE PLATE

Over the last five games, Cleveland has averaged 4.8 runs a game, a small gain compared to their season average of 4.0. Against righties like Stroman this season, the Guardians have a .693 OPS.

Jose Ramirez is the team’s strongest performer against right-handers with a .980 OPS in 205 at-bats.

Chicago is averaging only 4.4 runs per game in the last five, down slightly from 4.6 for the season. The Cubs have a .714 OPS against right-handers in 2023. With a .838 OPS over 207 at-bats, Ian Happ has been their best hitter against right-handers.

HOME AND AWAY

Cleveland is 19-23 in away games in 2023, scoring 4.4 runs per game while allowing 4.4 runs. Chicago has gone 21-20 in front of their home fans this season, averaging 4.8 runs per game while surrendering 4.2.

The teams have split their last 10 meetings at Wrigley Field, though Cleveland has the scoring advantage with an average final margin of 3.4-3.2.

STANDINGS UPDATE

The Guardians are second in the AL Central, zero games behind the division-leading Twins. The Cubs are fourth in the NL Central, five games behind the Brewers.