The St. Louis Cardinals (57-54) bounced back with a much-needed 5-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs (54-59) on Saturday, in a thrilling National League Central showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout.
This triumphant result allowed the Cardinals to overcome the setbacks from the first two games of the series, demonstrating their resilience and determination to remain competitive in the division.
Mikolas' Gritty Performance
Miles Mikolas, now with an 8-8 record, delivered a commendable performance despite having a season ERA of 4.99. Mikolas' determination on the mound played a pivotal role in the Cardinals securing this crucial win.
In contrast, Justin Steele, with a 2-5 record and a 3.38 ERA, struggled to dominate as the Cardinals' offense found ways to capitalize on opportunities and drive in runs.
Outlook for the Series Finale
Attention now turns to the deciding game, scheduled for prime time on Sunday Night Baseball. The first pitch is set for 7:10 p.m. ET, as both teams gear up for what promises to be a riveting contest.
The bookmakers have listed Chicago as the favorites for this final matchup, with the Cubs positioned at -148 on the money line. The over/under for total runs in the game is pegged at 9, setting the stage for a competitive and possibly high-scoring affair.
Trends from recent games further fuel the anticipation. The Cubs' total runs have hit the Under in 25 of their last 38 home games. On the other hand, the Cardinals have been formidable on the road, covering the run line in nine of their last 11 away games.
Key Players to Watch
Cody Bellinger has been a consistent performer for the Cubs, with a .276 batting average, 11 home runs, and 42 RBI this season. Bellinger showcased his prowess on Thursday, going 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run against St. Louis.
Ian Happ, another key figure for the Cubs, sports a .228 average with 17 home runs and a team-leading 62 RBI. Happ proved his worth with a standout performance against the Cincinnati Reds on July 31, where he went 3-for-4, including a double and a home run, driving in two runs.
For the Cardinals, Alec Burleson has been a reliable contributor, boasting a .278 batting average, 19 home runs, and 64 RBI. Burleson drove in two crucial runs during a 1-for-4 outing in a previous win over the Rangers on July 31.
Nolan Arenado, with his consistent play, has a .266 batting average, 11 home runs, and 48 RBI, complemented by a .705 on-base percentage. Arenado contributed effectively on Thursday, going 2-for-4 with two singles and an RBI.
Series Decider Awaits
The stage is set for an exhilarating series finale between the Cardinals and Cubs. With both teams showcasing their strengths and key players stepping up, the final game promises to be a nail-biter. Fans will be eagerly watching as these historic rivals battle it out under the prime-time spotlight.