Cubs vs Rays Prediction MLB Picks Today 5/31
- Mr Wager
- May 31, 2023, 5:11:39 AM
© Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Introduction
The Tampa Bay Rays are set to take on the Chicago Cubs in an intriguing matchup on May 31, 2023, at Wrigley Field. As fans eagerly anticipate this game, we provide a comprehensive analysis of each team's pitching, hitting, and injuries.
Pitching Analysis
The Rays will send Zach Eflin to the mound, while the Cubs will counter with Justin Steele. Eflin has been outstanding this season, boasting a 7-1 record with a solid 3.17 ERA and 1.02 WHIP. He has demonstrated excellent command, issuing only seven walks in 54 innings pitched. Steele, on the other hand, has also had a strong season with a 6-2 record, a 2.77 ERA, and a 1.11 WHIP. He has shown good control, with just 16 walks in 65 innings.
Both pitchers have been reliable for their respective teams, but Eflin's slightly better ERA and lower WHIP give him the edge in this pitching matchup. His ability to keep hitters off balance and limit baserunners should work in favor of the Rays.
Hitting Analysis
The Rays possess a formidable lineup led by Yandy Diaz, who has been exceptional with 12 home runs, a .320 batting average, and 30 RBIs. Randy Arozarena has also been a key contributor with 11 home runs and 40 RBIs, displaying his ability to drive in runs consistently. The Rays' lineup boasts power and a high batting average, making them a formidable force at the plate.
On the other side, the Cubs have relied on Patrick Wisdom, who has belted 14 home runs and driven in 28 runs with a .218 average. However, their overall team batting average is lower than that of the Rays, with Seiya Suzuki leading their lineup with a .288 average.
Considering the offensive firepower of the Rays, their ability to hit for power and get on base gives them an advantage over the Cubs in this game.
Injury Report
Injuries can impact a team's performance significantly, and it's important to consider them when making predictions. The Rays currently have Shawn Armstrong on the 60-Day IL and Pete Fairbanks on the 15-Day IL. The Cubs, on the other hand, have no injured players listed. While these injuries may affect the depth of each team's bullpen, they are not expected to have a major impact on the outcome of this game.
Prediction
Taking into account the pitching analysis, hitting analysis, and the overall performance of both teams, the Tampa Bay Rays are favored to come out on top in this matchup. Zach Eflin's impressive pitching, combined with the offensive firepower of players like Yandy Diaz and Randy Arozarena, gives the Rays the edge. While Justin Steele has been solid for the Cubs, their lineup lacks the consistency and power exhibited by the Rays who have been cold offensively on this series so I expect them to wake up on this game.
Pick: Rays ML -135
