Cubs vs Nationals Prediction MLB Picks Today 7/17
- Mr Wager
- Jul 17, 2023, 2:34:15 AM
© Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
MLB Predictions: Nationals vs Cubs - A Detailed Analysis and Prediction
As the MLB season continues to unfold, the Washington Nationals are set to face the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on July 17, 2023. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of both teams, including pitching, hitting, and injury reports, and will conclude with our MLB picks for today. For real-time updates and more MLB experts picks, download the Kingpin.pro app, available on both iOS and Android.
Washington Nationals
Pitching Analysis
The Nationals' pitching staff has been led by left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore, who has a 4-7 record, a 4.42 ERA, and a 1.46 WHIP over 89.2 innings. Despite his losing record, Gore has shown potential with 108 strikeouts this season.
Hitting Analysis
On the offensive side, the Nationals have been led by Lane Thomas, who has hit 14 home runs, driven in 50 runs, and maintained a .299 batting average. His performance will be crucial in this game.
Injury Report
The Nationals have Patrick Corbin on paternity leave, Jeimer Candelario listed as day-to-day, and Hunter Harvey out. These absences could potentially impact the Nationals' lineup.
Chicago Cubs
Pitching Analysis
The Cubs' pitching staff is led by left-handed pitcher Drew Smyly, who has a 7-6 record, a 4.31 ERA, and a 1.36 WHIP over 94.0 innings. However, Smyly has struggled in his recent starts, which could give the Nationals an advantage.
Hitting Analysis
Offensively, the Cubs have been led by Patrick Wisdom, who has hit 15 home runs, and Nico Hoerner, who has driven in 48 runs and maintained a .270 batting average. Their performances will be key in this game.
Injury Report
The Cubs have Dansby Swanson on the 10-day injured list. His absence could potentially impact the Cubs' lineup.
Prediction
Firstly, the Nationals have shown resilience on the road, with a decent record of 22-24. This indicates that they have the ability to perform well in away games, even in challenging environments like Wrigley Field.
Secondly, the recent struggles of the Cubs' starting pitcher, Drew Smyly, could provide an opportunity for the Nationals to capitalize. Smyly, despite having a 7-6 record, has been inconsistent in his recent starts, with a 4.31 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP over 94.0 innings. This could potentially open up scoring opportunities for the Nationals' hitters.
In particular, the Nationals' leading hitter, Lane Thomas, who has a .299 batting average and has hit 14 home runs this season, could be a key player in this game. If Thomas can exploit Smyly's recent form and put runs on the board, it could swing the game in the Nationals' favor.
Moreover, the Cubs have Dansby Swanson on the 10-day injured list, which could weaken their lineup and further tilt the game in the Nationals' favor.
Pick: Nationals ML +120
