Today at Camden Yards, the Baltimore Orioles are hosting the Chicago Cubs in a game that sees two teams in vastly different circumstances. The Cubs had a promising start to this MLB Season, but have since fallen behind, currently occupying the last place in the NL Central, a full 10 games behind the division-leading Brewers. However, they’ve managed to secure three consecutive victories, providing a glimmer of hope.
The Orioles are comfortably leading the AL East, two games ahead of the Yankees. Despite their recent back-to-back losses to the Cubs, the Orioles are in a prime position to recover and extend their lead over New York at their home game today. However, it might be a bit challenging as the Cubs are pitching their star left-hander, Justin Steele, who could potentially end the series with a sweep today.
Is he capable of guiding the Cubs to a surprise win on the road? Or will Baltimore prevent a sweep by securing a victory on their home ground tonight?
Justin Steele Starts for the Cubs Today in Camden Yards
Is it possible for Steele to push back against the Orioles on their home turf?
Matchup Information – Cubs vs Orioles
- Location and Venue: Camden Yards, Baltimore, MD
- Date: Thursday, July 11th, 2024
- First Pitch: 6:35pm Eastern
Pitching Matchup
- Chicago Cubs: Justin Steele (1-3, 2.95 ERA)
- Baltimore Orioles: Albert Suarez (5-2, 2.48 ERA)
Betting Odds
Odds via BetOnline, an industry leader in the sports betting world.
Run Line
- Cubs +1.5 (-172)
- Orioles -1.5 (+152)
Money Line
- Cubs +124
- Orioles -135
Total
- Over 8.5 (-120)
- Under 8.5 (+100)
Can Orioles Avoid the Home Sweep?
Can the Orioles prevent a home series loss to the Cubs?
Justin Steele vs Orioles Bats
After returning from injury at the beginning of the season, Justin Steele experienced several challenging games. However, he has since regained his form. He recently achieved his first season victory, pitching an entire 9-inning game, permitting only 1 run on 2 hits and 2 walks. This victory, though, was on his home turf. In his last two starts on the road, Steele has allowed 5 runs on 13 hits over 13.1 innings. He also permitted 2 home runs and 1 walk. Despite these figures, Steele’s statistics show a slight improvement when playing on the road.
However, he is still up against the Baltimore hitters who have a preference for lefties.
The Orioles, as a team, have an overall batting average of .255, with a .257 average at Camden Yards this season, and a .264 average against left-handed pitchers, ranking them 5th in the league. Their batting average in June was .273 and so far in July, it’s .254. With the Yankees hot on their heels, this game is crucial for Baltimore to gain ground. Adley Rutschman’s personal batting average leaps from .284 to .389 when facing left-handed pitchers, while Ryan Mountcastle sees his increase from .272 to .313. Jordan Westburg also experiences a rise in his average from .280 to .325 when playing at Camden Yards.
In my view, the splits align perfectly for the Orioles. However, let’s shift our focus to their pitcher.
Albert Suarez vs Cubs Bats
Albert Suarez is set to start the game from home for the Orioles, demonstrating dependable performance throughout the year. With a record of 5-2, a sub 2.50 ERA, and a 1.21 WHIP, Suarez has secured two consecutive victories. In his recent two starts, he has pitched 12 innings, conceding only 2 runs on 7 hits and a single walk. However, both runs were due to solo home runs. Notwithstanding, since his transition from the bullpen, the Orioles haven’t lost any game he has started at Camden Yards, and it doesn’t appear that this streak will break tonight.
Suarez boasts a 1.50 ERA this year at home with 30 innings pitched, and a 1.00 WHIP. Meanwhile, the Cubs maintain a .231 average in away games without fluctuation and it slightly decreases to .230 against RHP. However, their 19-28 record on the road coupled with their recent two consecutive victories, leads me to favor the home team.
The Orioles have experienced two losses, both during away games. However, they have successfully evaded being swept in the last game of a home series three times. I believe they have the potential to repeat this success tonight.
Chicago Cubs vs Baltimore Orioles Best Bets
Henderson is delivering a season worthy of MVP consideration for the Orioles.
Best Bet: Orioles ML (-132) BetOnline
The Orioles currently lead the Yankees by two games in the AL East and have not experienced a three-game losing streak at home this season. They have had four instances of back-to-back losses, but each time they swiftly rebounded with a victory in the next game. I predict a similar outcome tonight. Suarez’s exceptional home splits cannot be overlooked, and the Orioles have a knack for thriving against left-handed pitchers. Although these batters and pitchers have not faced each other much in their careers, Baltimore’s .786 OPS against left-handed pitchers is convincing enough for me.
I have faith that the home team, despite losing two consecutive games, will bounce back and score some runs tonight.
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