9th Sept - Cardinals vs Cubs

The St Louis Cardinals have been outplayed by the Chicago Cubs at Busch Stadium – that might not only hold significance from a potential future postseason meeting perspective, but it has seen the Cardinals NL Central lead over the Pittsburgh Pirates trimmed to four and half games with 20+ games still left to play.

The problem against the Cubs has been a useful hitting line-up getting at St Louis’ pitchers. They’ve given up eight runs in each of the last two contests. Last night was a great example with potential Cy Young contender Michael Wacha getting attacked early and giving up six runs in the first two innings, before eventually getting pulled out after just four.

On the mound tonight is Carlos Martinez, who has struggled after an extremely strong start. He’s posted a 2-3 record with a 5.13 ERA over his last seven starts and there are some suggestions that he might be due some rest during September.

It won’t be easy on Wednesday. Jon Lester’s is Mr. September and Mr. October and he’s gradually improved the control and variety in his pitches over the course of the season. He’s also had some terrific run support over the last month or so, Lester has started two previous games at Busch Stadium, winning both of them.

Chicago’s hitters are on song right especially Anthony Rizzo and Starlin Castro. Kyle Schwarber is expected to return to the lineup tonight after a six-game absence and will probably take the lead-off spot strengthening the hitting even further.

Three Reasons for Betting Tips

1. St Louis will not lose three straight here

This team has been built around performing their best at the most important time in the season. We think that an immeasurable x-factor will come into play in this game and the Cardinals will find a way to grind out a win against Lester and these Cubs.

2. Interesting pitching match-up

There’s reason for either franchise to feel confident in their starting pitcher tonight, but neither are playing lights out baseball (as they have done previously in their careers). We expect a pitching duel of sorts, but our betting tips hedge towards a higher Alternate Game Total because of some of that shaky form, we’re still expecting a relatively low-scoring ball game.

3. Hitting hot streaks come to an end

The Cubs have been riding some hot bats, ironically, the line-up change of Schwarber coming back in could actually disrupt that.