Atlanta Braves vs. Chicago Cubs: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 23, 2024

Published on:
May 23, 2024 6:14 AM
The Atlanta Braves, riding a strong 28-18 overall record and 12-10 road record, head to Wrigley Field to face the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, May 23rd at 2:20 PM. The Cubs, holding a 27-23 overall record and 15-10 home record, look to even the series after a tied 1-1 current series record. Expect an intense matchup as these NL powerhouses clash.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Atlanta Braves
Chicago Cubs

Braves vs Cubs starting pitchers

  • Ben Brown for Chicago Cubs
  • AJ Smith-Shawver for Atlanta Braves

Braves vs Cubs statistics

Stat Braves Cubs
Hits 396 (Tied-16th) 374 (24th)
Batting Average .252 (7th) .227 (25th)
Runs Batted In 206 (13th) 202 (Tied-15th)
Runs 215 (16th) 218 (15th)
Home Runs 51 (Tied-15th) 48 (Tied-18th)
Walks 146 (24th) 182 (4th)
Stolen Bases 25 (Tied-23rd) 29 (16th)
Strikeouts 407 (17th) 438 (9th)
Pitches 6854 (28th) 7397 (12th)

Chicago Cubs recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
5/22/24 vs Atlanta Braves L 9-2
5/21/24 vs Atlanta Braves W 4-3 F/10
5/19/24 vs Pittsburgh Pirates L 3-2
5/18/24 vs Pittsburgh Pirates W 1-0
5/17/24 vs Pittsburgh Pirates L 9-3

Atlanta Braves recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
5/22/24 @ Chicago Cubs W 9-2
5/21/24 @ Chicago Cubs L 4-3 F/10
5/20/24 vs San Diego Padres W 3-0
5/20/24 vs San Diego Padres L 6-5
5/19/24 vs San Diego Padres L 9-1

Braves vs Cubs predictions

As the Atlanta Braves take on the Chicago Cubs, I'm expecting a big game from some of their key players. Ronald Acuña, for one, is due for a breakout performance. I think he'll come out swinging, collecting at least two hits, including a home run, and driving in a couple of runs. Ozzie Albies should also have a solid game, reaching base at least three times and scoring a run or two. And with Marcell Ozuna's powerful bat, I wouldn't be surprised if he knocks in a few runs himself, possibly even going yard.

On the other side of the diamond, the Chicago Cubs have their own set of stars ready to shine. I think Ian Happ will be a force to be reckoned with, getting on base multiple times and scoring at least one run. Christopher Morel, with his impressive power, could very well hit a home run and drive in a couple of runs. And Nico Hoerner, with his consistent bat, should collect at least two hits and score a run. The Cubs have a deep lineup, and I expect them to put up some runs.

Despite the Cubs' potent offense, I think the Braves' bats will ultimately prove too much for them. I'm predicting a Braves win, 7-5. With AJ Smith-Shawver on the mound for the Braves, I think they'll be able to contain the Cubs' offense enough to get the victory. The Braves' offense, meanwhile, should be able to take advantage of Ben Brown's pitching and score enough runs to take the win. It should be a fun, high-scoring game, but in the end, I think the Braves will come out on top.

Chicago Cubs injuries

  • Daniel Palencia (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Drew Smyly (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Jordan Wicks (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Colten Brewer (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Sam Thoresen (RP): Day-To-Day

Atlanta Braves injuries

  • Austin Riley (3B): Day-To-Day
  • Sean Murphy (C): 10-Day-IL
  • Tyler Matzek (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Blake Burkhalter (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Jesse Franklin V (CF): Day-To-Day

Braves vs Cubs game info

Venue Wrigley Field
Location Chicago, Illinois
First pitch Thu 2:20 PM
Temperature 62°
Chance of Rain 0%

Atlanta Braves vs. Chicago Cubs Betting Odds

Real-time odds powered by Optimal

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