The interleague clash in Chicago sets the stage as the Detroit Tigers take on the Chicago Cubs in the first game of a three-match series. Both teams are eager for a playoff push, adding excitement to this matchup. Recently, Detroit clinched a dramatic 3-2 victory over the Yankees, triumphing in the Little League Classic in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, while the Cubs narrowly missed a sweep against the Blue Jays, suffering a 1-0 defeat in their last game. In their previous encounters, the Cubs secured two wins out of three at Comerica Park from August 21 to 23, 2023.
Tigers on a Winning Streak
Detroit is riding high after claiming six victories in their last seven games. Their latest win against the Yankees showcased their resilience, coming back to secure a win in extra innings. Currently, the Tigers hold a record of 61-64, sitting fourth in the AL Central, trailing the Guardians by 11.5 games and the Royals by 8.5 games for the final wild card slot in the American League. In their latest contest, the team generated eight hits, with Parker Meadows and Colt Keith leading the offense, each contributing three hits. Although Tarik Skubal pitched well, he did not earn a decision, allowing one run over six innings. Beau Brieske secured the win with a solid relief performance.
Kenta Maeda is anticipated to take the mound for the Tigers, marking his 23rd appearance and 17th start of the season. His current record stands at 2-5, with a 6.18 ERA and a 1.395 WHIP. In his previous outing, he threw 5.2 scoreless innings in relief against the Mariners, showcasing his ability to adapt to different roles. Maeda’s history with the Cubs includes a 1-1 record and a 5.52 ERA in three career games against them. However, his performance at Wrigley Field has been less favorable, with an ERA of 10.57 over two starts.
Cubs Seek Redemption at Home
After a tough loss to the Blue Jays, the Cubs are looking to bounce back in front of their home crowd. With a record of 61-64, they currently sit third in the NL Central, also trailing the Brewers by 11.5 games and the Braves by 5.5 games for a wild card position. In their last game, Chicago struggled offensively, managing only four hits and failing to capitalize with runners in scoring position. Shota Imanaga was charged with the loss after a solid performance that saw him allow just one run over five innings.
Javier Assad will be the starting pitcher for the Cubs, marking his 23rd start of the season. He boasts a record of 5-3, with a 3.19 ERA and a 1.37 WHIP. Assad’s last outing against the Guardians did not result in a decision, though he pitched 4.2 innings and allowed just one run. Over his last three starts, he has maintained a 2.84 ERA, indicating his effectiveness in controlling runs. In a previous matchup against the Tigers, Assad pitched 5.1 innings, allowing two runs and contributing to a Cubs victory. At Wrigley Field, he has shown consistent performance, with a career ERA of 3.06.
Betting Insights for Tigers vs. Cubs
Both teams have shown flashes of success recently, with the Tigers winning six of their last seven games and the Cubs claiming 10 wins in their past 16 contests. The Tigers have managed to stay competitive despite a rotation filled with uncertainties. With Skubal not available for this series, the pressure falls on Maeda. Meanwhile, Assad’s ability to limit runs will be crucial for the Cubs. Given the Cubs’ home advantage and Assad’s recent form, they are favored to take the first game of this series.
