Kyle Hendricks (1-2, 3.91 ERA) and the Chicago Cubs (20-6) go up against Joe Ross (3-0, 0.79 ERA) and the Washington Nationals (19-8) in the first of a four-game series at Wrigley Field. The game gets underway at 8:05 p.m. ET on Thursday, May. 5 and will air on CSN+ and MAS2.
In his last start, Hendricks pitched 5.0 innings, giving up one run, striking out four and walking one in a 4-3 victory over the Brewers. Anthony Rizzo (.260, 22 Rs, 9 HRs, 27 RBIs, 2 SBs) continued his strong season yesterday, going 3 for 5 with three runs, one home run, and one RBI. The Nationals were victorious over the Cardinals 6-1 the last time Ross pitched. He went 6.0 innings, allowing one run, striking out four and walking two. Daniel Murphy (.398, 17 Rs, 4 HRs, 17 RBIs, 1 SB) has been hitting the ball well for the Nationals, going 4 for 5 yesterday with four runs, one home run, and three RBIs.
The odds are even for this game and the Over/Under (O/U) is presently unavailable. Chicago has averaged 0.0 runs per game over the last 10 games, higher than its season average of 0.0. They have been very patient at the plate, leading the NL with an average of 5.3 walks per game. The Chicago pitching staff has been dominant, only giving up 0.0 runs per game, which is best in the NL. The Cubs lead the league in WHIP at 0.993.
During the last 10 games, they averaged 0.0 runs per game, above their 0.0 season average. The Nationals are the top NL pitching staff on the road, essentially shutting down opponents to the tune of two runs allowed per away game. They have a WHIP of 1.059, second best in the MLB.
Predictions: SU Winner – CHC
Notes
When leading after seven innings, Chicago is 13-0, while Washington is 6-3.
The Nationals are coming into this game after allowing two walks during their last outing. The Cubs have a 2-1 record when opponents give up two walks or less.
When they outhit their opponents, the Nationals are 15-2. The Cubs have a 17-1 record when outhitting opponents.
Ranking first in runs, Chicago has earned 159 this season. Washington ranks 10th with 120 runs.
Ranking first in walks, Chicago has earned 139 this season. Washington ranks 14th with 86 walks.
When the Cubs hit at least one home run, they are 15-2, well-matched with the Nationals who are 14-4 when hitting one or more homers.
