Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs 5-26-23 MLB Analysis, Odds and Picks

Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs 5/26/23 – Here is our thorough examination of the upcoming MLB matchup between the Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs. The expected starting pitchers will be Hunter Greene and Justin Steele. In this article, we will dive deep into both teams’ offensive strengths as well as stirring pitcher performances; highlight betting trends relevant to this match-up; provide expert picks based on available odds; as we investigate this exciting clash, make sure to keep in mind all valuable insights provided by various MLB betting sites.

Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs

Date & Time: Friday, May 26, 2023, at 2:20 PM ET

Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois

TV: MLBN

Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs 5/26/23 Betting Odds

Reds

Moneyline: +132

Spread: +1.5 (-170)

Total: 8 over (-105)

Cubs

Moneyline: -162

Spread: -1.5 (+140)

Total: 8 under (-115)

Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs Analysis

The Cincinnati Reds possess a solid offensive lineup, although they have faced some challenges in recent games. With a batting average of 0.248, the Reds have scored 216 runs and hit 38 home runs. While their AVG may not be the highest, they can generate runs when needed. Their on-base percentage stands at 0.326, indicating their proficiency in getting on base, and their slugging rate is 0.379, showcasing their power-hitting capabilities.

On the pitching front, the Reds will turn to Hunter Greene as their starting pitcher in this matchup. Greene has displayed flashes of brilliance on the mound but has also encountered inconsistencies. Greene has experienced mixed success this season. Greene has shown inconsistent performance, boasting a win/loss record of 0-4, an ERA of 4.68, and a WHIP of 1.5 over ten starts over 50 innings pitched, allowing 55 hits, 28 earned runs with eight home runs given up, 20 walk-ups while striking out 69 batters in those 50 innings.

The Chicago Cubs boast an excellent offensive lineup that has contributed significantly to their success this season. With an average batting average of 0.262, the Cubs have proven they can consistently put the ball in play and reach base. They have scored an incredible 231 runs and hit an outstanding 62 homers, demonstrating their ability to generate offense. Their on-base percentage stands at an impressive 0.339, showing their remarkable plate discipline, and their slugging rate boasts an outstanding 0.429% to demonstrate their power-hitting prowess.

Taking the mound for the Cubs in this matchup is Justin Steele, who has been a reliable and dominant force on the pitching front. With a remarkable win-loss record of 6-1, an ERA of 2.2, and a WHIP of 1.01, Steele has consistently performed at a high level. In 10 games started, he has pitched 61.1 innings, conceding 46 hits, 17 runs, and 15 earned runs. Steele has exhibited excellent control, surrendering only two home runs and issuing 16 walks while recording an impressive 53 strikeouts.

Both teams possess offensive firepower, but the Cubs have displayed more consistency and power in their hitting. Additionally, with Steele’s stellar performance on the mound, the Cubs have a clear advantage in terms of pitching. These factors make them the favored team in this matchup.

Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs Against the Spread

The Cincinnati Reds have struggled in several key areas this season, such as Greene’s Friday starts and road games with low run totals. Their track record in these starts could have been better: six consecutive losses occurring with him on the mound; additionally, they have struggled in road games when run totals fall below 6.5, and they have lost all four such contests recently.

Chicago Cubs players have shown resilience in certain circumstances, particularly home games with total runs set between 9.0 and 10.5, winning each time, but have experienced difficulty when facing runs totaling 11.0 or greater; these scenarios were the source of eight defeats previously.

Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs Free Pick

Based on our analysis and the available odds, here are our expert predictions and picks for this matchup:

Moneyline: Cubs (-162)

The Chicago Cubs enter this game as the clear favorites, and with good reason. Thanks to their potent offense and Steele’s consistent performances on the mound, they hold an edge. We suggest placing a money line bet on them to secure victory.

Spread: Cubs -1.5 (+140)

Given Greene’s poor road starts and the Cubs’ recent home success, we forecast they’ll win by at least two runs, and betting with a spread of -1.5 may provide an attractive betting opportunity.

Total: 8 under (-115)

Given both teams’ strength and inconsistencies in offensive output, we anticipate a relatively low-scoring matchup. Betting on total runs staying under eight is wise.

Prediction: 3-5 Chicago Cubs win

As the Cincinnati Reds face the Chicago Cubs in this MLB matchup, the latter emerges as the clear favorite due to their offensive consistency and Justin Steele’s dominant pitching performance. Although Hunter Greene could offer Cincinnati’s offense some advantage at starting pitcher, challenges remain that make the Cubs the more likely victor. Our analysis and expert picks, considering current MLB betting odds and trends, will assist you in making informed betting decisions; enjoy this game, and good luck.