MLB

MLB Predictions: Are Nationals good underdog beat to upset Cubs? 8/4/17

Cubs vs Padres

Are the Nationals a good underdog play on Friday afternoon against the Cubs?

The Matchup: Nationals vs. Cubs, 2:20PM ET, Wrigley Field

Washington enters play having split over its last 10 games. The Nationals are now 63-43 on the year and continue to lead the National League East. They have fared well on the road this season, compiling a 34-21 record away from Nationals Park.

On the other side, Chicago has won six of its last 10 games but is coming off back-to-back losses to Arizona. Those two losses dropped the Cubs’ season record to 57-50. The club is 28-24 at Wrigley Field.

According to oddsmakers, Chicago is -146 money line favorites to win tonight at home. Washington, meanwhile, is +136 money line underdogs to pull off the upset.

The Pitching Matchup: Tanner Roark (WAS) vs. Kyle Hendricks (CHC)

Roark is coming off a loss to the Rockies on July 29. He pitched five innings that night, allowing four runs while scattering five hits and striking out eight. The loss dropped Roark’s record to 8-7. He has a 4.93 ERA on the season.

As for Hendricks, he’s coming off a no-decision on July 29 against the Brewers in Milwaukee. He scattered six hits in that outing, allowed one run and struck out three while walking none. Hendricks is now 4-3 on the year and owns a 3.80 ERA.

Our Prediction

The Nationals have a winning record against the National League Central over their last eight matchups versus that division, posting a 7-1 record. They have also been successful when Roark makes a start coming off five days of rest, racking up a 4-1 record in that situation.

On the other side, the Cubs are 0-4 when Hendricks starts the first game of a new series. Chicago has also dropped eight of its last 11 home games when facing a right-handed starter.

Friday MLB Prediction: Washington Nationals +136

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