MLB Player Props Picks of the Day: Cubs vs Reds - 7/30

MLB Player Props Picks of the Day: Chicago Cubs vs Cincinnati Reds - 7/30

Photo Credit: © David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Game Summary

The Chicago Cubs (51-57) face off against the Cincinnati Reds (51-55) in the second game of a three-game series at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati on July 30, 2024, at 7:10 PM EDT. After taking the first game of the series with a decisive 7-1 victory, the Reds look to extend their advantage over the Cubs, who have struggled on the road this season with a 24-32 record. Historically, the Reds have dominated their matchup against the Cubs this season, leading the series 6-2.

Recent performance for both teams shows a struggling offense; both the Cubs and the Reds posted a .199 batting average over their last ten games, with the Cubs being outscored by eight runs. The Reds, however, managed to outscore their opponents by two runs despite their low batting average. Notable players for the Reds include Elly De La Cruz, who boasts 18 home runs, and Santiago Espinal, who has been hot at the plate with two home runs in the last ten games. For the Cubs, Ian Happ leads with 16 home runs, but they find themselves needing more offensive consistency.

The pitching matchup features Justin Steele (Cubs), who has a 2-4 record with a 3.08 ERA and 91 strikeouts, going against Frankie Montas, making his first start of the season. The Cubs will look to Steele to provide a strong performance to snap their recent three-game losing streak and capitalize on their hitting advantage.

 

 

Player Prop Odds

For Justin Steele, the player prop odds for this matchup are as follows:

• Pitcher Record a Win: Yes +140.0 | No -190.0

Player Analysis

Justin Steele has been a reliable pitcher for the Cubs this season, showing impressive command and strikeout ability with a strikeout rate of approximately 23% and a WHIP of 1.06. His 3.08 ERA indicates he has been effective at limiting runs, making him a critical asset for the Cubs as they battle for a win against the Reds. Steele's ability to maintain control and avoid walks will be key against a Reds lineup that, while struggling, features power hitters capable of changing the game's momentum with a single swing.

Opposing Analysis

The Reds' offense has been inconsistent lately, but they have the potential to strike quickly. Players like Elly De La Cruz, who has 18 home runs and a solid slugging percentage, are capable of capitalizing on any mistakes Steele may make. The Reds have a record of 23-11 when they don’t allow a home run, highlighting the importance of Steele keeping the ball in the park.

Pitching Probables

Player	W-L	ERA	Strikeouts
Justin Steele (Cubs)	2-4	3.08	91
Frankie Montas (Reds)	0-0	N/A	N/A

Team Previews

The Cubs are currently struggling with an overall record of 51-57 and a 24-32 record on the road. Their hitting has been subpar, ranking 28th in the league with a .228 batting average. However, their pitching staff holds a respectable 3.83 ERA, ranking 11th in MLB, which gives them a fighting chance in tight games.

The Reds, on the other hand, have a slightly better overall record at 51-55, including a strong 27-25 record at home. Their offense, while low in batting average at .233, has shown flashes of brilliance and leads the league in home runs, indicating they can be dangerous if they get on base.

Team Injuries

Player	Position	Injury Status
Graham Ashcraft	SP	60-Day IL (elbow)
Luke Maile	C	10-Day IL (back)
Adbert Alzolay	RP	60-Day IL (forearm)

Recent Games

Opponent	Score	W/L
Cincinnati	L 7-1	W
Kansas City	W 7-3	W
Kansas City	W 9-4	W
Milwaukee	L 1-0	L
Milwaukee	L 3-2	L

Prediction

With Justin Steele taking the mound, the Cubs have a fighting chance in this matchup. Given his strong ERA and strikeout potential, the prop bet for Steele to record a win (+140) seems promising against a Reds team that, while potent, has been inconsistent at the plate. If Steele can keep the Reds from scoring early and the Cubs can capitalize on Montas' debut, we might see the Cubs snag a much-needed victory.

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