Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 31, 2024

Published on:
May 31, 2024 6:10 AM
On Friday, May 31st, the Chicago Cubs, holding a 28-29 overall record and a strong 15-11 home record, will host the Cincinnati Reds, who are struggling with a 24-32 overall record and a 10-15 road record, at iconic Wrigley Field. The Cubs will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage, while the Reds will aim to turn their fortunes around on the road.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Cincinnati Reds
Chicago Cubs

Reds vs Cubs starting pitchers

  • Javier Assad for Chicago Cubs
  • Graham Ashcraft for Cincinnati Reds

Reds vs Cubs statistics

Stat Reds Cubs
Hits 390 (30th) 421 (25th)
Batting Average .216 (29th) .227 (26th)
Runs Batted In 214 (22nd) 224 (Tied-16th)
Runs 227 (Tied-20th) 240 (Tied-15th)
Home Runs 52 (Tied-18th) 52 (Tied-18th)
Walks 191 (8th) 199 (4th)
Stolen Bases 85 (2nd) 35 (Tied-14th)
Strikeouts 515 (6th) 497 (8th)
Pitches 8075 (18th) 8306 (10th)

Chicago Cubs recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
5/30/24 @ Milwaukee Brewers L 6-4
5/29/24 @ Milwaukee Brewers L 10-6
5/28/24 @ Milwaukee Brewers W 6-3 F/10
5/27/24 @ Milwaukee Brewers L 5-1
5/26/24 @ St. Louis Cardinals L 4-3

Cincinnati Reds recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
5/29/24 vs St. Louis Cardinals L 5-3
5/28/24 vs St. Louis Cardinals L 7-1
5/27/24 vs St. Louis Cardinals W 3-1
5/26/24 vs Los Angeles Dodgers W 4-1
5/25/24 vs Los Angeles Dodgers W 3-1

Reds vs Cubs predictions

Going into tomorrow's matchup at the iconic Wrigley Field, there are a few key players on the Cincinnati Reds that could make a significant difference. Elly De La Cruz, known for his quick bats and agility, has been a consistent force this season with a batting average of .249 and 9 home runs. His performance could be crucial in setting the tone early in the game. Additionally, Spencer Steer, leading the team with 35 RBIs, shows promise of driving in crucial runs. Meanwhile, on the mound, Graham Ashcraft, despite his challenging 4.67 ERA, could find his groove and potentially silence the Cubs’ hitters if he leverages his pitches effectively.

On the flip side, the Chicago Cubs have some standout players who could tilt the scale in their favor. Javier Assad, with an impressive ERA of 2.17 and only one loss this season, seems geared up to deliver another strong pitching performance. His command over strikes could indeed make life difficult for the Reds’ batters. At the plate, Christopher Morel will be someone to watch. Leading the team with 10 home runs and matching Steer's 35 RBIs, his ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities could be the game-changer. Coupled with Cody Bellinger’s consistent hitting, pacing at a team-high .267 batting average, the Cubs indeed have the firepower to dominate.

Given the current form and statistical advantages, I’m leaning toward the Chicago Cubs to clinch this one. They not only have a superior pitching edge with Assad on the mound but also display a slightly more cohesive unit in terms of batting and on-field chemistry. Playing at home at Wrigley Field, where they've secured a solid 15-11 record, will further buoy their confidence. Although the Reds have their strengths, especially in speed and agility, the Cubs' balanced attack and strategic depth should see them through in what promises to be an engaging showdown.

Chicago Cubs injuries

  • Keegan Thompson (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Yency Almonte (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Daniel Palencia (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Sam Thoresen (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Colten Brewer (RP): 15-Day-IL

Cincinnati Reds injuries

  • Justin Wilson (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Brandon Williamson (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Emilio Pagan (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Ty Floyd (SP): Day-To-Day
  • Connor Overton (SP): Day-To-Day

Reds vs Cubs game info

Venue Wrigley Field
Location Chicago, Illinois
First pitch Fri 2:20 PM
Temperature 67°
Chance of Rain 0%

Cincinnati Reds vs. Chicago Cubs Betting Odds

Real-time odds powered by Optimal

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