12th Oct - Cubs vs Cardinals

It’s all tied up in the match-up between National League Central division rivals, the St Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs. John Lackey out-duelled Jon Lester in a tight opening game, before the Cubs hit Jaime Garcia hard early in game two, eventually running out 6-3 winners.

The pitching duels continue on Monday night in Chicago, with the NL Cy Young award favourite Jake Arrieta going head-to-head against Michael Wacha.

Wacha might be the third starter in this series and he struggled in September posting a 2-3 record, 7.88 ERA and made it past the fifth inning only once. Still, that shouldn’t erase memories of a terrific August, in which Wacha went 3-0 with a 1.13 ERA.

He’s had some time to enjoy a break, but Wacha won’t get much of a reprieve as he goes up against Arrieta. The Cubs’ ace has been in emphatic form. He was chosen to play the potentially pressure filled Wildcard game and barely flinched while pitching nine scoreless innings giving up only five hits in the clash with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Both batting line-ups have showcased their potential early in this series, but both have been effectively shut out as well. Still, it’s hard to feel that this match-up won’t be decided by the two pitchers.

Three Reasons for Betting Tips

1. Do you dare bet against Arrieta?

We really can do that, especially in Chicago at Wrigley Field.

2. Cubs top order sets tone

There’s still not been much to shout about in terms of Kris Bryant’s output, or even Anthony Rizzo or Starlin Castro for that matter. However, Dexter Fowler and Jorge Soler both made good early contact to set the tone and get some base runners going for Chicago.

3. Wrigley Field will be ready

Do you think the Cubs’ fan base will be ready for the return of postseason hockey? We’d bet on that and they’ll represent at least one extra man for Chicago on Monday night.