15th Sept - Pirates vs Cubs

The Pittsburgh Pirates will hope to keep up their good form closing in on St Louis and creating distance between themselves and the Cubs.

Gerrit Cole is on the mound for Pittsburgh tonight after putting together possibly his strongest performance of the season nine days ago against the Cardinals. He’s 16-8 on the season with a 2.54 ERA and appeared to have all of his pitches working.

Jason Hammel aims to win consecutive starts for the first time since June. He’s struggled for consistency all season long and has experienced some difficulties against Pirates hitters this season.

Three Reasons for Betting Tips

1. Pittsburgh on a roll

We’ll back the Pirates while they’re on this roll, there’s nothing not to like about the way they are playing baseball right now.

2. Cole re-discovered his mojo

There’s been no doubt about Cole’s pitching credentials, in fact he was a Cy Young front runne earlier this season. However, after a rough patch of form, he appeared to find his location and his range of pitches in his last outing.

3. Hammel consistency issues

We’re not convinced that Hammel can produce a strong enough all-round outing to beat a Pirates offense that has been working better than good.