Game Overview
The Cubs enter this matchup riding a four-game winning streak, having won eight of their last ten games. Meanwhile, the Reds are 5-5 in their last ten outings, looking to bounce back after a 3-2 loss to the Kansas City Royals.
Chicago has won five of the last seven meetings between these teams, making them the favorites heading into this contest.
Starting Pitchers
| Team | Pitcher | Record | ERA | WHIP | Strikeouts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reds | Andrew Abbott (LHP) | 5-2 | 1.77 | 1.12 | 40 |
| Cubs | Colin Rea (RHP) | 3-3 | 4.82 | 1.36 | 38 |
Abbott has been dominant, allowing just two earned runs over five starts in May, including a six-hit, one-run performance against the Cubs last weekend. Rea, on the other hand, has struggled, posting a 4.82 ERA in May, including a six-run outing against Cincinnati.
Team Comparisons
| Category | Reds | Cubs |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 28-29 | 35-21 |
| Runs Per Game | 4.3 | 5.89 |
| Batting Average | .255 | .246 |
| Home Runs | 69 | 46 |
| ERA | 5.40 | 4.08 |
| Bullpen ERA | 4.89 | 3.72 |
Chicago leads MLB in runs scored, averaging 5.89 per game, while Cincinnati has struggled with pitching, ranking 19th in bullpen ERA (4.05).
Key Players to Watch
Cincinnati Reds
- Elly De La Cruz (SS) – 11 HR, 40 RBI, hitting .275, riding a six-game hitting streak.
- TJ Friedl (OF) – Leads the team with a .301 batting average.
- Austin Hays (OF) – .303 AVG, six home runs, providing consistent production.
Chicago Cubs
- Pete Crow-Armstrong (OF) – 15 HR, 42 RBI, ranking sixth in MLB in home runs.
- Seiya Suzuki (OF) – .405 AVG over his last ten games, riding a nine-game hitting streak.
- Kyle Tucker (OF) – 12 HR, 39 RBI, hitting .281, providing middle-of-the-order power.
Matchup Breakdown
- Reds’ Power vs. Cubs’ Pitching – Cincinnati ranks eighth in home runs, while Chicago’s pitching staff has been inconsistent.
- Cubs’ Contact Hitting vs. Reds’ Defense – Chicago has a solid batting average (.246) but lacks power, while Cincinnati has struggled defensively.
- Bullpen Battle – Both teams have shaky relief pitching, making late-game execution crucial.
Game Odds
Cincinnati Reds 8.5
Chicago Cubs – 170
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 29, 2025
