Chicago Cubs vs Detroit Tigers Moneyline Prediction 8/21
Read our expert moneyline pick for the Chicago Cubs vs Detroit Tigers game on August 21. Get the latest odds, betting trends, and in-depth team analysis.
Game Summary
The Chicago Cubs will host the Detroit Tigers at Wrigley Field on August 21, 2024, in a matchup between two teams with identical records of 61-64. Both teams have struggled this season, but the Cubs will look to leverage their home field advantage as they attempt to improve their standing in the National League Central. The Cubs have a solid pitching rotation, with Jameson Taillon slated as the starter, who holds a record of 8-7 and an ERA of 3.62 over 121.2 innings pitched. He has demonstrated consistency, striking out 96 batters while allowing 120 hits and 17 home runs. The Tigers, on the other hand, are still finalizing their starting pitcher for the game, which could significantly impact their chances. The Tigers' offense has averaged just .231 this season, placing them 27th in the league, while their pitching staff has an ERA of 3.82, ranking 11th. Historically, the Cubs have had the upper hand in recent matchups against the Tigers, but both teams will be looking to break their recent losing streaks. The weather at Wrigley Field is expected to be sunny with a temperature around 79 degrees, which may favor the hitters, potentially leading to a high-scoring affair.
Odds and Betting Lines
| Bet Type | Odds |
|---|---|
| Moneyline - Chicago Cubs | -156 |
| Moneyline - Detroit Tigers | +132 |
| Over/Under | Not Available |
Pitching Probables
| Pitcher | W-L | ERA | WHIP | IP | H | K | BB | HR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jameson Taillon (CHC) | 8-7 | 3.62 | 1.18 | 121.2 | 120 | 96 | 24 | 17 |
| Undecided (DET) | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- | -- |
Team Previews
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs have had a mixed season, showcasing flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency. With a batting average of .234, the Cubs rank 24th in the league in hitting. Their offense is led by Cody Bellinger, who boasts a batting average of .273 and has contributed significantly with 22 home runs and 69 RBIs. The Cubs' pitching staff has performed admirably, with a team ERA of 3.71, ranking them 5th in the MLB. Their starting rotation, featuring Jameson Taillon, has been a vital part of their strategy to stay competitive during the season. Despite a few injuries in their bullpen, the Cubs are expected to field a strong team at home.
Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers have faced challenges throughout the season, currently sitting with an identical record to the Cubs. The Tigers rank 25th in hits with 968 and 21st in runs scored, managing just 518 throughout the season. Riley Greene leads the team with a .261 batting average and has contributed 17 home runs and 51 RBIs. The Tigers' pitching has been slightly better than their hitting, with an ERA of 3.82. However, their uncertainty surrounding the starting pitcher for the matchup against the Cubs may pose a significant disadvantage. The Tigers will need to rely heavily on their bullpen and offense to secure a win against a competitive Cubs lineup.
Team Injuries
Chicago Cubs
| Player Name | Position | Injury | Injury Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colten Brewer | RP | Hand | Expected to be out until at least Sep 9 |
| Luke Little | RP | Lat | Out for the season |
Detroit Tigers
| Player Name | Position | Injury | Injury Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reese Olson | SP | Shoulder | Expected to be out until at least Sep 10 |
Betting Trends
- The Cubs are 5-2 in their last seven games at home.
- The Tigers are 2-5 in their last seven games against a team with a losing record.
- Chicago is 4-1 in Taillon's last five starts against teams with a losing record.
- Detroit has struggled with the moneyline, going 1-4 in their last five games.
Recent Games
Chicago Cubs
| Opponent | Score | W/L |
|---|---|---|
| vs Arizona | L5-2 | L |
| vs Arizona | L3-0 | L |
| vs Arizona | W2-1 F/10 | W |
| vs Milwaukee | W3-1 | W |
| vs Milwaukee | L1-0 | L |
Detroit Tigers
| Opponent | Score | W/L |
|---|---|---|
| @ Toronto | W5-4 | W |
| @ Toronto | W7-3 | W |
| @ Toronto | L5-4 | L |
| @ Cleveland | W8-2 | W |
| @ Cleveland | L5-4 | L |
Team Rankings
| Team | Hitting | Starting Pitching | Relief Pitching | Fielding |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Cubs | 24th | 5th | Tied-23rd | Tied-19th |
| Detroit Tigers | 27th | 11th | Tied-23rd | Tied-17th |
Significant Betting Stats
- The Cubs are 4-1 in their last five games against the Tigers.
- The Tigers are 1-4 in their last five games overall.
- Cubs are 8-2 in Taillon's last ten home starts.
- Tigers are 2-5 in their last seven road games.
- The Cubs are 6-4 in their last ten home games against teams with a losing record.
- The total has gone over in 4 of the Cubs' last 5 games.
- The Tigers are 2-8 in their last ten games against the National League Central.
- Cubs have hit the over in 5 of their last 7 games.
- The Tigers are struggling against right-handed pitching.
- The Cubs have a solid record when favored at home.
Weather
Weather is expected to be sunny with a temperature of 79°F.
