Game Summary

The Toronto Blue Jays (57-65) face off against the Chicago Cubs (60-63) on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 2:20 p.m. EDT at Wrigley Field, Chicago. Both teams have shown a decent performance in their recent games, each registering a 6-4 record over their last ten outings.

The Cubs are currently on a three-game winning streak at home. They have a solid home record of 33-27 and have outscored their opponents by eight runs in their last ten games. Their ninth-ranked on-base percentage of .310 in the National League is a key factor contributing to their recent success. On the other hand, the Blue Jays, despite being fifth in the AL East, have struggled away from home with a 28-34 record.

Historically, the Cubs and Blue Jays have played each other only a few times in recent seasons. This matchup will be the second meeting between these teams this season, with the Cubs emerging victorious in their last encounter. The matchup features two capable pitchers: Chris Bassitt, who has a 4.30 ERA and 129 strikeouts for the Blue Jays, and Justin Steele, who boasts a 3.16 ERA and 112 strikeouts for the Cubs.

Top performers heading into the game include Vladimir Guerrero Jr. for the Blue Jays, leading with a .319 batting average and 25 home runs. For the Cubs, Dansby Swanson's contributions, particularly in the infield, and his ability to get on base will be crucial as they aim to extend their winning streak.

Player Prop Odds

Here are the player prop odds for Dansby Swanson in the upcoming game:

• Batter Doubles: 0.5 - Over: +400
• Batter Hits: 0.5 - Over: -195
• Batter RBIs: 0.5 - Over: +160
• Batter Runs Scored: 0.5 - Over: +105
• Batter Singles: 0.5 - Over: -115
• Batter Total Bases: 1.5 - Over: +150

Player Analysis

Dansby Swanson, the Cubs' shortstop, has been a pivotal player for the team. With a batting average hovering around .270, he has demonstrated his capability at the plate. Swanson has recorded 60 RBIs and has been a consistent performer in clutch situations. His ability to get on base is reflected in his on-base percentage, showcasing his role as a table-setter for the Cubs' offense.

Notably, he has a tendency to come through in high-pressure situations, making him a valuable asset in the lineup. With a solid slugging percentage, he has the potential to hit doubles and contribute to the Cubs’ scoring. His combination of speed and power makes him a candidate for both runs scored and RBIs, especially against a pitcher like Chris Bassitt, who has shown vulnerability to left-handed hitters.

Opposing Analysis

The Blue Jays' pitching staff, led by Chris Bassitt, has been solid this season but has its weaknesses. Bassitt's 4.30 ERA indicates that he can be hit, especially by players who can make solid contact like Swanson. The Blue Jays' bullpen has also been inconsistent, which could open the door for Swanson to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Analyzing the Cubs' hitting against right-handed pitchers, they have performed well, with a .260 team batting average against right-handers. Swanson's ability to hit for average and get on base will be key against Bassitt, who has allowed a few extra-base hits this season. This matchup favors Swanson in terms of his hitting props, particularly for singles and total bases.

Prop Analysis

The props available for Swanson show a range of possibilities. The odds for him to get over 0.5 hits at -195 suggest that sportsbooks expect him to have at least one hit during the game. Given his recent form and consistent performance, this is a strong possibility.

Additionally, the odds of +400 for hitting over 0.5 doubles indicate that while it is less likely, there is still potential for Swanson to drive the ball into the gaps, especially if he can get ahead in the count against Bassitt. His speed on the base paths also increases his chances of scoring, supported by the +105 odds for over 0.5 runs scored.

Starting Pitching Summary - Blue Jays

Chris Bassitt has been a reliable starter for the Blue Jays, with a record of 9-11 and a 4.30 ERA. His tendency to give up runs has been a concern, but he has struck out 129 batters this season, showcasing his ability to get outs. However, his WHIP of 1.44 suggests he has allowed too many base runners, which could be detrimental against a potent lineup like the Cubs.

In his last few starts, Bassitt has struggled to maintain consistency, which could play into the hands of a player like Swanson, who is adept at making contact and taking advantage of mistakes. With the Cubs riding a three-game win streak, Bassitt will need to be at his best to neutralize their offense.

Starting Pitching Summary - Cubs

Justin Steele, the Cubs' starting pitcher, boasts a solid 3.16 ERA and has been a key part of the Cubs' rotation. His ability to limit walks and keep the ball in the park makes him a formidable opponent. Steele's strikeout rate is also impressive, with 112 strikeouts this season, indicating he can miss bats and control the game.

Steele's recent performances have been strong, and he will look to continue that trend against the Blue Jays. If he can keep the Blue Jays' hitters off balance, it will ease the pressure on the Cubs' offense and provide Swanson and his teammates opportunities to drive in runs.

Bullpen Summary - Blue Jays

The Blue Jays' bullpen has had its ups and downs this season, particularly in high-leverage situations. They currently hold a 3.75 ERA, which ranks them fifth in the AL. If Bassitt struggles early, the pressure will fall on the bullpen, which has shown vulnerability against aggressive hitters like Swanson.

The depth of the bullpen will be crucial for the Blue Jays. If they can maintain their composure and perform under pressure, it could limit Swanson's opportunities to drive in additional runs or score himself.

Bullpen Summary - Cubs

The Cubs' bullpen has been relatively reliable, with a 4.54 ERA. They have shown the ability to close out games effectively, but inconsistency can rear its head. If Steele can pitch deep into the game, it will allow the Cubs' bullpen to manage the game effectively and provide support for the players at the plate, including Swanson.

Team Previews

Toronto Blue Jays: The Blue Jays have a team batting average of .235, which ranks them 22nd in the league. They have struggled with consistency, but players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have the potential to power the offense. Their pitching has been solid, ranking fifth in ERA, but the bullpen's inconsistency raises concerns.

Chicago Cubs: The Cubs have a batting average of .239, placing them 19th in the league. They have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly at home, and their pitching has been decent. The lineup is bolstered by players like Swanson and Ian Happ, who have been contributing significantly to the offense.

Team Injuries

Cubs Injuries:

Blue Jays Injuries:

Recent Games

Toronto Blue Jays Recent Games:

Chicago Cubs Recent Games: