Teams that finished the first half of the season on a positive note are set to collide this Friday as the Arizona Diamondbacks take on the Chicago Cubs in a three-game series at Wrigley Field in Chicago. Both teams are looking to build on their recent success and gain momentum as they venture into the latter half of the season.
Arizona Diamondbacks: On a Roll
Sitting second in the National League West with a 49-48 record, the Diamondbacks ended the first half with an emphatic run, clinching eight wins in their last 12 games before the All-Star break. The team's resurgence has largely been spurred by standout performances from key players.
Leading the charge is second baseman Ketel Marte, who is batting .292 with 19 doubles, two triples, 19 home runs, 57 RBIs, and 64 runs scored. Marte's form has been nothing short of spectacular. Just before the break, he delivered a 3-for-5 performance with a homer and four RBIs in an 8-7 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays. Over his last nine games heading into the All-Star Game, Marte recorded five multi-hit games, underlining his consistency.
Marte's career stats against Chicago are also noteworthy. In 30 games against the Cubs, he's hitting .278 with five doubles, one triple, five homers, and 14 RBIs. As he steps onto Wrigley Field, the Diamondbacks will be hoping for more of the same from their star second baseman.
Another player making significant contributions is left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who has registered hits in nine of his past 10 games. Notably, on July 3 against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Gurriel Jr. went 2-for-5, including a double, a home run, three RBIs, and two runs scored. His career numbers against the Cubs include two doubles, two home runs, and nine RBIs in 12 games, showcasing his capability to deliver in crucial matches.
Starting on the mound for Arizona in the series opener will be Ryne Nelson. With a 6-6 record and a 4.98 ERA, Nelson will be looking to build on his season and give the Diamondbacks the start they need in this pivotal series.
Chicago Cubs: Fighting Form
The Cubs come into this series with a 47-51 record, placing them fifth in the NL Central and 3.5 games out of the Wild Card. They, too, have shown their mettle recently, winning eight of their last 11 games. Their earlier encounter with the Diamondbacks in Phoenix saw them winning two out of three games, which they'll be eager to replicate on home turf.
Taking the mound for Chicago will be Justin Steele, who boasts a 2-3 record with a compelling 2.71 ERA. Steele's recent performances have been impressive, with his last two starts resulting in wins. He particularly shone on July 18, pitching seven strong innings against Baltimore, allowing only three hits while striking out four in an 8-0 victory. Over his 14 starts this season, Steele has pitched 86.1 innings, conceding 64 hits, 26 earned runs, 18 walks, and striking out 81 batters.
First baseman Michael Busch has also been a significant contributor to the Cubs' offense. Recently, he went 3-for-5 with a double in a 5-4 loss in the second game of a doubleheader against St. Louis. His season stats are robust, batting .271 with 19 doubles, one triple, 12 home runs, 36 RBI, and 46 runs scored over 91 games.
Historically, the Diamondbacks hold the edge over the Cubs with a 98-85 advantage in their all-time series. However, the Cubs lead 46-43 in games played at Wrigley Field, a factor that could play into their favor as they aim to close the gap in the standings.
Game Outlook
The series opener's first pitch is slated for 2:20 p.m. ET. The Diamondbacks enter the game as a slight favorite with a –119 money line, while the over/under is set at 7.5 runs according to Vegas odds. Both teams will be eager to set the tone early and capitalize on their recent form.
As the Diamondbacks and Cubs prepare to face off, fans can expect a fiercely contested series featuring key battles on the mound and at the plate. With both teams having much to play for, the stage is set for a thrilling matchup at Wrigley Field.