Rays vs Cubs Prediction MLB Picks Free 6/11

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Jun 11, 2024, 2:07:39 AM

MLB Preview and Prediction: Chicago Cubs vs. Tampa Bay Rays

The Chicago Cubs travel to Tropicana Field to face the Tampa Bay Rays in an intriguing matchup. Both teams are looking to gain momentum and improve their standings as the season progresses.

Game Overview:

Date: June 11, 2024
Time: 3:50 PM
Location: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, Florida

Team Breakdown:

Chicago Cubs:

The Cubs come into this game with a 32-34 record and a challenging 14-21 record away from home. Jameson Taillon will take the mound for the Cubs, sporting a 3-2 record, 3.47 ERA, and 1.36 WHIP over 49.1 innings. Taillon's consistency and ability to handle pressure will be vital for Chicago in this matchup.

Offensively, the Cubs are led by Christopher Morel, who has shown power with 12 home runs and a .203 batting average. Mike Tauchman has also been a steady contributor with a .261 batting average, .365 on-base percentage, and .397 slugging percentage. The Cubs will rely on their key hitters to provide the necessary run support.

Key Players:

Home Runs: Christopher Morel (12 HR)
Batting Average: Mike Tauchman (.261 AVG)
Runs Batted In: Christopher Morel (39 RBI)

The Cubs are looking to build on recent successes and leverage their pitching strength and timely hitting to secure a victory.

Tampa Bay Rays:

The Rays have a 31-35 record and a 17-22 record at home. Zach Eflin will start for Tampa Bay, carrying a 3-4 record, 4.14 ERA, and 1.14 WHIP over 63 innings. Eflin's ability to control the game and avoid big innings will be crucial for the Rays.

Offensively, the Rays are led by Isaac Paredes, who has a .288 batting average with 10 home runs and 37 RBIs. Paredes' consistent performance, coupled with other contributors in the lineup, makes the Rays a threat on offense.

Key Players:

Home Runs: Isaac Paredes (10 HR)
Batting Average: Isaac Paredes (.288 AVG)
Runs Batted In: Isaac Paredes (37 RBI)

The Rays will look to leverage their home-field advantage and strong offensive contributors to turn their recent fortunes around.

Game Odds:

Team	Moneyline	Total	Run Line
CHC (32-34)	+115	o7.5 (-115)	+1.5 (-180)
TB (31-35)	-135	u7.5 (-105)	-1.5 (+150)

Prediction:

The prediction for this game is a win for the Chicago Cubs. Here’s why:

Jameson Taillon has shown solid form this season with a 3.47 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. His ability to deliver under pressure and maintain control on the mound will be pivotal against the Rays' lineup.

Despite their road record, the Cubs have shown resilience and the ability to compete in tough environments. Their recent win against Cincinnati is a testament to their fighting spirit and capability to win close games.

Offensively, the Cubs have key players like Christopher Morel who can change the game's momentum with their power hitting. Additionally, Mike Tauchman's consistency at the plate adds depth to their lineup, making it harder for opposing pitchers to navigate through.

The Rays, on the other hand, have struggled recently, losing their last four games. Their pitching staff, including Zach Eflin, has been inconsistent, which the Cubs can exploit. Eflin's higher ERA indicates potential vulnerabilities that the Cubs' hitters can target.