The St. Louis Cardinals showcased their resilience on Saturday, bouncing back from two consecutive losses to secure a dramatic 5-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs in a fiercely contested National League Central matchup. This win elevates the Cardinals' record to 57-54, while the Cubs fall to 54-59.
Starting pitcher Miles Mikolas embodied the Cardinals' fighting spirit, delivering a determined performance despite his season ERA standing at 4.99. Mikolas’ efforts were pivotal in halting the Cardinals' slide in the series and setting the stage for a potential series split on Sunday night.
Key Performances
Justin Steele, representing the Cubs, currently holds a 2-5 record with an impressive 3.38 ERA. Despite recent challenges, Steele’s pitching has largely remained effective over the course of the season. However, it wasn’t enough to outduel Mikolas and the resilient Cardinals.
The Cubs enter Sunday’s decisive game as favorites, with bookmakers listing them at -148 on the money line. The over/under for total runs in this game is positioned at 9, reflecting the potential for another high-scoring encounter. Historically, the Cubs’ total runs have hit the Under in 25 of their last 38 home games, suggesting a tendency for lower-scoring games at Wrigley Field. Meanwhile, the Cardinals have covered the run line in nine of their last 11 away games, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure away from home.
Offensive Highlights
Cody Bellinger continues to be an offensive force for Chicago, boasting a .276 batting average along with 11 home runs and 42 RBIs this season. Bellinger’s recent performance, which saw him go 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run against St. Louis on Thursday, underscores his consistency at the plate.
Ian Happ, another key player for the Cubs, holds a .228 average with 17 home runs and a team-leading 62 RBIs. Happ’s ability to deliver in crucial moments was evident on July 31 against the Cincinnati Reds when he went 3-for-4 with a double and a homer, driving in two runs.
For the Cardinals, Alec Burleson has been a standout with a .278 batting average, 19 home runs, and 64 RBIs. Burleson’s performance against the Rangers on July 31, where he had a 1-for-4 outing and drove in two runs, highlights his significance to the team’s offensive lineup.
Nolan Arenado remains a cornerstone for St. Louis, sporting a .266 batting average, 11 home runs, and 48 RBIs, complemented by a .705 on-base percentage. Arenado's contribution in Thursday's game, where he went 2-for-4 with two singles and an RBI, further exemplifies his skill and reliability.
Looking Ahead to Sunday Night
The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to this series on Sunday Night Baseball, with the first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. Both teams will be eager to assert their dominance in the National League Central battle.
The Cardinals, buoyed by their recent win and strong performances from key players, will look to carry this momentum into Sunday’s game. On the other hand, the Cubs, despite the setback on Saturday, remain favorites and will aim to leverage their home-field advantage to clinch the series.
As the rivalry heats up, fans can expect an electrifying contest filled with strategic plays, standout performances, and perhaps a few surprises, making Sunday night’s game a must-watch for baseball enthusiasts.