Cincinnati Reds Vs. Chicago Cubs: The End Game Of Forgotten Teams
Underrated, underestimated, and unhurriedly gating their way to close the season. The Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs will face off this Sunday afternoon in an unforgettable season finale of their three-match series. With dreams and ambitions shattered, both teams have to bore another harsh winter of uncertainty and determination along with the desire to bounce back stronger dealing with the void that impeded their path to the postseason. Having the Cubs slightly better-placed and the Reds riding a losing spree, this match is going to be an exquisite end to a journey that promised much more than it delivered.
Team Analysis
Diving into team assessments, the Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds started the season with high hopes, only to be met with unexpected deterrence. The Cubs, one of the major team to follow this season, couldn’t quite pull it off the way fans wanted. Also, the Reds with a decent ranking left followers puzzled by not quite reaching the mark.
Chicago Cubs
Despite entering the season as favorites and maintaining a solid performance since the All-Star break, the Cubs looked wayward during the second half of the season. “Our ambition was high, but so were challenges,” reflects Cubs manager Craig Counsell, hinting at the hard decisions that lay ahead as the team looks forward to the next season.
Cincinnati Reds
Starting the season on a promising note, the Reds found themselves entrapped in a loop of misfortunes including injuries and a transfer of key player Matt McLain. An eight-game losing streak early in the season caused a decline that the Reds found difficult to overturn. The season’s dismal run culminated in the dismissal of manager David Bell. Reds’ player Hunter Greene weighs on the poor season and looks ahead with a positive mindset.
Key Players to Watch
Despite a season full of turbulence, both teams boast some eye-candy talents who have played a vital part in shaping their narratives and have demonstrated exceptional prowess on the field.
Hunter Greene for Cincinnati Reds
Hunter Greene (9-5, 2.83 ERA) is looking for his double digit win in his three-year major-league career. After recuperating from elbow soreness, Greene will be hoping to sign off the season on a high note.
Caleb Kilian for Chicago Cubs
Making his first debut of the season, Caleb Kilian (0-1, 7.94) will bear the responsibility of helping his team finish the season with a winning streak. Despite a shaky run on his first relief appearance, Kilian is a talent to watch.
Final Thoughts
A fitting closure to the season or just the beginning of a major rework, who knows? The Cincinnati Reds’ and Chicago Cubs’ journey has been filled with broken expectations, nevertheless, this match is poised to serve audiences with a thrilling encounter and the promise of a new dawn. As both teams step on the field for the last time, the baseball enthusiasts watch on, waiting for an unanticipated end to an anticipated season.
Betting Picks:
Moneyline:
The Cincinnati Reds are favored in this matchup, with stronger odds reflecting their recent performance. However, the Chicago Cubs could be a value pick as underdogs, especially if they capitalize on key moments.
Our Pick: Chicago Cubs -105
Over/Under:
Both teams have been solid defensively, and the pitching staff has been strong. We expect a more controlled game, making the Under 7 runs the safer play.
Our Pick: Under 7
