Chicago Cubs (49-55) vs. Kansas City Royals (56-47)
As we approach another thrilling MLB showdown, the Chicago Cubs, holding a 49-55 record, are set to take on the Kansas City Royals with a stronger 56-47 standing on Sunday, July 28, 2024. This matchup, scheduled at Kauffman Stadium, is a pivotal game for both teams as they strive to improve their season standings. Fans and bettors alike are keenly awaiting this game, which promises to be a notable event in this season’s MLB picks and predictions.
The Chicago Cubs have not been consistent this season as their win/loss record shows and they are just below .500 team. They have not been as successful though they have displayed relative solidity in the road games; they are 27-25 ATS in road games. As a team, they have been mediocre, scoring an average of .233 on batting and a slugging of .375. But again, their pitching has kept an average of 3.7 ERA which may come handy as teams fight out for crucial victories.
On the other hand, the Kansas City Royals have played better in their form at 56-47. Their team possesses only a slight advantage in terms of batting average which is .250 and a somewhat better slugging which is .408. Looking at the Royals’ pitching staff, they have an ERA of 3.76 which is almost close to the Cubs, which may mean that the two teams may fight for innings. The Royals, therefore, plan to exploit whichever home ground they are playing from and the offense to consolidate an even strengthened winning record.
Chicago Cubs vs. Kansas City Royals Game Info
| When: | Sunday, July 28, 2024 at 2:10 PM ET |
| Where: | Kauffman Stadium |
| TV: | BSKC |
| Stream: | MLB.TV |
Javier Assad (4-3 W-L, 3.15 ERA) vs. Cole Ragans (7-6 W-L, 3.23 ERA)
The Cubs’ Javier Assad has provided okay stats for the current season having a 3.15 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP and having pitched 88.2 innings. Assad has struck out 81 batters; however, the locations in the zone limited him to 41 walks. Pressure in away games will be an area of concern as he comes up against the Royals. Assad’s strengths include releasing a consistent pitch and his ability to go deep into games which the cubs will require as they play against the powerful royals.
On the other side, for the Royals, Cole Ragans had a 3.23 ERA and a better 1.15 WHIP in 122.2 innings. Ragans has stood out at Third with 146 strikeouts, and 40 walks proving the pitcher’s control and capabilities of producing strikeouts. Specifically, his home performance has been impressive and, thus, he is a tough competitor on the mound. These may be Ragans’ strengths in this confrontation: to minimize home runs and keep running away from the bases.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be announced, but given the current form and home advantage, the Royals might be slight favorites. Bettors should keep an eye on the odds as they develop, particularly focusing on the over/under totals given the pitching matchup and recent scoring trends.
Chicago Cubs Betting Trends
The Cubs have shown some inconsistencies recently, going 2-3 in their last five games both outright and against the spread. Moreover, the totals have gone OVER in only 21 of their last 52 home games, suggesting a trend towards lower-scoring games which could influence betting strategies for this matchup.
Kansas City Royals Betting Trends
The Royals, on the other hand, have been more reliable with a 3-2 record in their last five games and the same against the spread. Their scoring has been more robust, with totals going OVER in 25 of their last 55 home games, indicating a tendency to play in higher-scoring environments when at home.
Chicago Cubs vs. Kansas City Royals 7/28/24 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ recent form and statistical outputs, this game is poised to be closely contested. The Royals seem to have a slight edge due to their superior batting and home-field advantage. Bettors should consider the Royals for a straight win, especially if their moneyline offers value.
Given the pitching stats and recent scoring trends, a cautious approach to the total over/under might be wise, pending the release of the official line. Additionally, looking at prop bets involving strikeouts for Cole Ragans could offer value, given his impressive strikeout rate this season. Always visit the top online betting for the latest odds movements.
