Cubs vs Rays Prediction MLB Picks for Today 5/29
- Lm Tipster
- May 29, 2023, 8:13:24 AM
© Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Preview
The Chicago Cubs and Tampa Bay Rays are set to face off in an exciting MLB matchup on May 29, 2023. As the season progresses, both teams have shown their strengths and weaknesses, making this game a highly anticipated one. In this article, we will provide an extensive review of each team, analyzing their pitching, hitting, and current injury reports. Finally, we will present our prediction as well.
Tampa Bay Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays have been in exceptional form this season, boasting an impressive record of 39-16. With a dominant performance both at home and on the road, they have established themselves as one of the teams to watch in the MLB. The Rays' pitching rotation has been a key factor in their success, led by right-handed pitcher Taj Bradley. Bradley holds a solid 3-1 record with a 4.44 ERA and has displayed excellent control on the mound.
On the offensive side, the Rays have hitters who can change the game with their power. Yandy Diaz has been a standout player, leading the team in home runs with 12 and maintaining an impressive batting average of .327. Randy Arozarena has also been a force to be reckoned with, racking up 39 RBIs and displaying a batting average of .301.
In terms of injuries, the Rays have a couple of players on the sideline. Relief pitcher Pete Fairbanks is listed as day-to-day, and shortstop Johan Lopez is serving a suspension. These absences may have an impact on the team's performance but should not undermine their overall strength.
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs, on the other hand, have faced some struggles this season, currently holding a 22-30 record. While their performance at home has been relatively better, they have a challenging task ahead of them against the formidable Rays. The Cubs will rely on right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman to lead their pitching staff. Stroman boasts a 4-4 record with a stellar 2.95 ERA, showcasing his ability to keep opponents at bay.
In terms of hitting, Patrick Wisdom has been a standout performer for the Cubs, leading the team in home runs with 14. However, the team has struggled overall, with an average batting average of .257. Nico Hoerner has shown promise with a .286 batting average, but the Cubs will need a collective effort from their lineup to overcome the Rays' formidable pitching.
Fortunately for the Cubs, they do not have any players listed on the injury report, which bodes well for their chances of fielding their strongest lineup.
Prediction
Taking into account the pitching matchups, hitting performance, and injury reports, we predict that the Chicago Cubs will come out on top in this matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays. While the Rays have been dominant this season, the Cubs have a strong pitcher in Marcus Stroman, who can neutralize their offensive threats. Additionally, the Cubs' hitters, led by Patrick Wisdom, have the potential to capitalize on Taj Bradley's occasional lack of control on the mound.
Furthermore, playing at home will provide an advantage for the Cubs, as they look to turn their season around and put up a strong performance against the highly regarded Rays. Although it will be a closely contested game, we believe the Cubs have what it takes to secure a victory.
Pick: Cubs ML +110
