After splitting the first two games, the Chicago Cubs (2-3) and Cincinnati Reds (3-2) will take on each other looking to win this series in Cincinnati.
Chicago took the game last night behind a six-run seventh inning. The Cubs managed to score 12 runs without leaving the yard once. Taking the game this afternoon would win them their season’s first series.
Cincinnati hit three home runs last night but only managed five runs. They gave up 12 runs anyway, which makes it difficult to beat anyone. The Reds embark on their first road trip of the year after this, so they will look to punctuate the homestand with a second series win. Holding the Cubs under five runs for once would help.
Cubs vs. Reds is a historic rivalry that has already added two high-scoring contests to the 2023 chapter. Here’s a look at what this afternoon should bring.
Match Details
Fixture: Chicago Cubs @ Cincinnati Reds
Date and Time: Wednesday, April 5, 12:35 p.m. EST
Venue: Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio
Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds: Betting Odds
| Team | Run Line | Total | Money Line |
| Cubs | -1.5 (+145) | Over 8.5 (-105) | -115 |
| Reds | +1.5 (-170) | Under 8.5 (-115) | -105 |
Starting Pitchers
Marcus Stroman is lined up to make his second start of the season after throwing 6.0 shutout innings on Opening Day. Last season, Stroman went 2-0 with a 1.64 ERA against the Reds. In his career, he’s 4-1 with a 2.55 ERA and 33 strikeouts across six starts against Cincinnati.
Hunter Greene’s first start wasn’t quite as dazzling, as he only lasted 3.1 innings and allowed three runs. 2022 was Greene’s rookie season, and he started three games against the Cubs. He went 2-1 but allowed eight runs in 15.0 innings, finishing with a 4.80 ERA.
Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds: Key Stats
Cody Bellinger faced Hunter Greene last season and was perfect at the plate. In four plate appearances, Bellinger finished with three hits and a sacrifice fly. He hit a home run and drove in three runs. Early returns on the Chicago offseason have seen them shoot up to ninth in on-base percentage while striking out the sixth-fewest times. Their pitching staff is fifth in strikeouts and 10th in hits allowed heading into this game.
Cincinnati began the season at home, and the Reds have taken advantage of their hitter-friendly park. The Reds are fourth in home runs and slugging percentage through the season’s first week. Their pitchers have kept the ball in the yard, though, only allowing three long balls so far.
Cubs vs. Reds: Betting Prediction
While Marcus Stroman is a proven high-caliber starting MLB pitcher, and Hunter Greene is supposed to be on his way to stardom, the bullpens behind both starters have been ineffective so far this year. Chicago is 24th in bullpen ERA right now, and Cincinnati is 20th. Considering that Great American Ball Park is very advantageous to hitters and both lineups have been productive early, a late run explosion wouldn’t be shocking, especially not on an 80-degree day in Cinci. Take the over.
