Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs 9-23-23 MLB Analysis, Best Picks, and Odds

Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs 9/23/23 – The Colorado Rockies will square off against the Chicago Cubs on Saturday, September 23, 2023. With Chris Flexen taking the mound for the Rockies and Marcus Stroman for the Cubs, this game promises to deliver some fascinating pitching matchups. If you’re looking for top baseball picks, this comprehensive analysis has you covered.

Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs

Date & Time: Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 2:20 PM ET  

Location: Wrigley Field  

TV: MARQ

Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs 9/23/23 Betting Odds

TeamMoneylineSpreadTotal
Colorado Rockies+173+1.5 (-120)9 over (-114)
Chicago Cubs-192-1.5 (-102)9 under (-114)

Colorado Rockies Analysis

Offensively, the Colorado Rockies have had an unimpressive season on offense with an average batting average of 0.249 and scoring 678 runs with 1280 hits – not particularly impressive. Their total of 146 homers also fails to impress. Their on-base percentage of 0.310 indicates difficulties creating scoring opportunities despite some notable performers in their lineup; though few standout players exist across their lineup this year. Noteworthy is their underperformance in situational hitting. The Rockies have struggled to drive runners into scoring positions, which is an obvious indicator. Their offensive woes can also be seen through their low slugging percentage of 0.400, showing they’re struggling not only to get players on base but also creating extra-base hits. Defensively, the Rockies face numerous hurdles. Their 5.62 earned run average is amongst the highest in the league; an indication of their struggling pitching staff. Their 1.53 WHIP rate also indicates an ineffective pitching staff leading to too many baserunners which result in more runs being scored against them. 

Chris Flexen, as starting pitcher has had a tough season, with a dismal 1-8 win-loss record and an ERA of 7.19. His WHIP of 1.71 and 91.1 innings pitched further highlight his struggles. Given these statistics, it’s difficult to expect a standout performance from him against the Cubs.

Chicago Cubs Analysis

This year, the Chicago Cubs’ offense has been an impressive powerhouse. Boasting an admirable batting average of 0.255 and scoring 776 runs – more than double those scored by Colorado alone! Their impressive power with 185 homers throughout their lineup and an OBP of 0.330 highlight their ability to get runners on base regularly. The Cubs have proven themselves effective not just with their primary stats; they have excelled at clutch situations too. From runners in scoring position or late game situations, to their impressive slugging percentage of 0.421. Their balanced offense boasts both speed and power making them a formidable threat on the diamond. 

On defense, the Cubs are easily outclassing the Rockies. Their pitching staff has maintained an ERA of 4.11 which significantly outshines Colorado’s 5.62 mark; additionally, their 1.28 WHIP shows they possess superior control of baserunners than Colorado. Marcus Stroman has had a reasonable year, posting a 10-8 record with a 3.76 ERA. His 1.23 WHIP and 131.2 innings pitched reflect a stable, albeit not extraordinary, performance. Stroman brings reliability to the table, which gives the Cubs an edge in this matchup.

Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs Against the Spread

The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Colorado’s last 11 games, and they are 0-5 straight up (SU) in their last 5 games. Interestingly, they have been more successful against the Cubs recently, with a 4-2 SU record in their last 6 games. However, their terrible road record (0-8 SU) is alarming.

The Cubs have seen the total go UNDER in 8 of their last 8 games against Colorado. They’re 2-7 SU in their last 9 games but have shown promise at home with the total going UNDER in 14 of their last 19 games. When facing Colorado at home, the total has gone UNDER in 4 of the last 5 meetings.

Colorado Rockies vs. Chicago Cubs Free Pick

Based on odds, trends, team stats, and starting pitchers, here are the picks:

Moneyline: Cubs -192

The Cubs have been the stronger team overall and have a more reliable starting pitcher in Marcus Stroman.

Spread: Cubs -1.5 (-102)

Given the Cubs’ superior stats and the Rockies’ recent struggles, especially on the road, taking the Cubs to cover the spread seems like a smart bet.

Total: 9 under (-114)

Both teams have shown a trend towards the UNDER in recent matchups, making this a solid pick.

Predicted Score: Chicago Cubs 5, Colorado Rockies 2.

This game looks like it will be in favor of the Chicago Cubs, making them a safe bet for those interested in live betting in Canada. Keep an eye on Marcus Stroman; his stable pitching could make all the difference in this matchup.