The Chicago Cubs (65-66, 61-70 RL, 59-68-4 O/U) and the Pittsburgh Pirates (62-67, 71-58 RL, 60-65-4 O/U) kick off a three-game divisional series on Monday evening. The Cubs are set to field Jameson Taillon, while the Pirates will counter with Mitch Keller. Currently, the Pirates hold a slight edge in the season series, leading 4-3.
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Cubs Aiming for Series Victory
Jameson Taillon takes the mound for Chicago, coming off a difficult outing where he allowed four runs in five innings against Detroit, resulting in a loss. This month has been tough for the experienced right-hander, who holds a 5.73 ERA. Overall, Taillon features a 3.77 ERA and 1.20 WHIP with an 8-8 record over 126.2 innings this season. Earlier this year against the Pirates, he allowed three runs in 4.2 innings, and throughout his career, he has given up 11 runs in 16 innings against them.
The Cubs are currently on a road trip and have managed to win three consecutive series. They secured two of three against the Marlins last weekend, with their offense scoring an impressive 21 runs in the series. Despite these victories, the Cubs find themselves 5.5 games out of a wildcard spot and are eight games below .500 while playing away from home.
Seiya Suzuki has had a quieter month at the plate, contributing only eight RBIs but boasting a solid .856 OPS. The 30-year-old slugger has hit 18 home runs and driven in 60 runs this season, with an overall OPS of .822. Against the Pirates this season, Suzuki has struggled, managing just two RBIs and a low .471 OPS.
As a team, the Cubs average 4.28 runs per game, placing them 15th in the league. Their pitching staff has performed well, maintaining a 3.69 ERA, which is good for fifth overall.
Keller Takes the Ball for Pittsburgh
Mitch Keller will be on the mound for the Pirates. He recently delivered an impressive performance, throwing seven scoreless innings against the Rangers and earning the win. Despite this success, Keller has struggled lately, posting a 6.75 ERA this month. For the season, he has a 3.76 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP, alongside an 11-7 record over 148.1 innings. Against the Cubs earlier this season, Keller limited their offense to just two runs in six innings, although he has a 4.78 ERA and a 5-4 record in 58.1 career innings against them.
The Pirates are currently in the midst of a homestand. They were in the wildcard race last month but have struggled through August, losing four consecutive series. However, they managed to secure three wins in four home games against the Reds before this matchup, despite allowing 18 runs. Pittsburgh is just one game below .500 at home.
Oneil Cruz has emerged as a standout player, posting an impressive .950 OPS this month. The 25-year-old shortstop is enjoying a breakout season with 18 home runs and 63 RBIs, along with a .793 OPS. Against the Cubs, Cruz has recorded two RBIs and an .836 OPS. Connor Joe has also contributed, hitting five RBIs and maintaining an impressive .860 OPS against Chicago.
As a team, the Pirates average 4.15 runs per game, placing them 21st in the league. Their pitching staff has a 3.88 ERA, ranking them 14th overall.
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Key Insights for Cubs vs. Pirates Showdown
The Chicago Cubs have benefited from a favorable schedule, facing teams struggling at the bottom of the standings in their last three series. However, they have recorded only two wins in their last six road games. The Pittsburgh Pirates have had the upper hand against the Cubs this season, winning four out of seven matchups.
Additionally, Taillon has faced challenges, allowing four or more runs in his last three starts, contributing to his current 5.73 ERA this month. In contrast, Keller recently shined with seven scoreless innings against the Rangers and has been victorious in six of his last eight starts.
