The St. Louis Cardinals showcased resilience on Saturday, edging out the Chicago Cubs with a thrilling 5-4 victory in their National League Central showdown. This win was particularly significant for the Cardinals, who had struggled in the first two games of the series.
Key Performances That Made the Difference
Miles Mikolas, despite a challenging season reflected in his 4.99 ERA, demonstrated grit and determination on the mound. His performance improved his record to an even 8-8, playing a pivotal role in the Cardinals' victory.
On the other side, Justin Steele continued to put up a solid fight for the Cubs, holding a 2-5 record and a commendable 3.38 ERA. His efforts, though noteworthy, weren't enough to secure a win for Chicago this time around.
Looking Ahead to the Decider
As the series reaches its climax, all eyes turn to the prime-time final game set for Sunday Night Baseball, with the first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. The bookmakers have pegged Chicago as the favorites, listing them at -148 on the money line. The over/under for total runs in this critical game is set at 9.
Statistics suggest an interesting betting landscape, with the Cubs' total runs hitting the Under in 25 of their last 38 home games. Meanwhile, the Cardinals have shown prowess on the road, covering the run line in nine of their last 11 away games. These figures paint a compelling picture for both teams heading into the final matchup.
Star Players to Watch
Cody Bellinger stands out with a .276 batting average, accompanied by 11 home runs and 42 RBIs this season. His recent performance against the Cardinals, where he went 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run, underscores his significance in the Cubs' lineup.
Ian Happ is another key player for Chicago. With a .228 average, 17 home runs, and a team-leading 62 RBIs, Happ has proven to be a critical asset. His performance on July 31 against the Cincinnati Reds, going 3-for-4 with a double, a home run, and driving in two runs, exemplifies his game-changing capabilities.
For the Cardinals, Alec Burleson has emerged as a vital player, boasting a .278 batting average, 19 home runs, and 64 RBIs. His contribution in a previous win over the Rangers on July 31, where he drove in two runs with a 1-for-4 outing, highlights his ability to deliver under pressure.
Nolan Arenado also continues to be a cornerstone for St. Louis. With a .266 batting average, 11 home runs, 48 RBIs, and a .705 on-base percentage, Arenado's consistency is invaluable. His recent 2-for-4 performance with two singles and an RBI reiterates his reliable presence in the lineup.
As both teams prepare for the deciding game, fans can expect a high-stakes battle where every play could shift the momentum. The Cardinals will look to leverage their recent win and away game advantage, while the Cubs aim to capitalize on their home field and betting odds favor.
With star players like Bellinger, Happ, Burleson, and Arenado poised to make an impact, Sunday's game promises to be a fitting conclusion to this intense series.