The St. Louis Cardinals (57-54) secured a nail-biting 5-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs (54-59) on Saturday, rallying back in an exhilarating National League Central showdown. This win marks an important recovery for the Cardinals after dropping the first two games in the series.
One of the key contributors to this vital victory was Miles Mikolas, who despite his challenging season with an 8-8 record and a 4.99 ERA, delivered a performance characterized by determination and resilience. Mikolas' efforts on the mound played a fundamental role in keeping the Cubs at bay, allowing his team the opportunity to eke out the win.
The stage is now set for an intense conclusion with the series finale slated for prime time on Sunday Night Baseball. The first pitch is set for 7:10 p.m. ET, with Chicago entering the matchup as the favored team according to bookmakers, listed at -148 on the money line. Fans are expecting a high-stakes clash, with the over/under for total runs pegged at 9. It’s worth noting that in 25 of their last 38 home games, the Cubs' total runs have hit the Under, a trend that could influence betting decisions.
While the Cardinals have struggled in parts of the series, they have managed to cover the run line in nine of their last 11 away games, showcasing their potential for resilience and comeback on the road. This aspect could be pivotal in the deciding game against their storied rivals.
Key Performances Fueling the Rivals
Cody Bellinger has been a notable force for the Cubs this season, boasting a .276 batting average with 11 home runs and 42 RBI. His performance on Thursday solidified his impact on the series as he went 2-for-4, including a double and a solo home run against the Cardinals. Bellinger's offensive prowess remains a key factor for the Cubs, and fans will be looking to him for continued success.
Ian Happ has also demonstrated his capabilities with a .228 average, 17 home runs, and a team-leading 62 RBI. His significant outing on July 31, where he went 3-for-4 with a double and a homer driving in two runs against the Cincinnati Reds, underscore his potential to swing the momentum in favor of the Cubs.
On the Cardinals' side, Alec Burleson has been delivering with consistency, boasting a .278 batting average, 19 home runs, and 64 RBI. His recent performance on July 31, where he went 1-for-4 and drove in two runs against the Rangers, highlights his vital role in the team's lineup.
Nolan Arenado continues to be a cornerstone for St. Louis with a .266 batting average, 11 home runs, and 48 RBI, complemented by a .705 on-base percentage. Arenado’s recent contributions, including a 2-for-4 performance with two singles and an RBI on Thursday, reflect his dependable presence at the plate.
Awaiting the Decisive Battle
As the series comes down to the final game on Sunday night, all eyes will be on both teams as they bring their best to the diamond. With the Cubs favored and the Cardinals showing strength on the road, fans are in for an exciting conclusion to this fierce rivalry.
Whether it will be the Cubs capitalizing on home-field advantage or the Cardinals overcoming the odds yet again, one thing is for certain: The National League Central clash is bound to deliver high drama and memorable moments.