Cubs Seek Series Sweep Against Pirates in Anticipated Matchup
Attempting a Clean Sweep: Cubs' Series Dominance
The Chicago Cubs find themselves in a familiar position, having secured victories in the initial two games of this series. This marks the fifteenth occasion this season where they've achieved such a feat. Historically, in series with a decisive third game, the Cubs hold a balanced record of seven wins and seven losses, displaying a stronger performance at home with six wins against a single loss, compared to their road record of one win and six losses. This trend underscores the significance of playing on their home turf as they aim to close out the series with a sweep.
Cubs vs. Pirates: A Historical Perspective of Home Series
For the first time in their last seven home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Cubs have won the opening two games. Prior to this weekend's success, their record against the Pirates at home since September 19, 2023, stood at 9 wins and 11 losses. However, looking further back to June 8, 2018, the Cubs enjoyed a dominant period with 31 wins and 10 losses, including six series sweeps, one of which comprised four games. Their most recent sweep occurred on June 15, 2023, with impressive scores of 11-3, 10-6, and 7-2, highlighting their potential for complete dominance.
The Crucial Advantage of Scoring First
Scoring the first run in a game significantly impacts the Cubs' success, as evidenced by their 51-22 record in such scenarios, including an impressive 26-8 at home. Their winning percentage also soars when they achieve specific offensive milestones: 72-23 when scoring at least four runs, 70-33 with seven or more hits, 70-38 after hitting at least one home run, and 72-41 when drawing three or more walks. The team's performance in the previous game, where they met all these criteria, bodes well for their chances in the upcoming match.
A Look Back: Memorable Cubs History on September 13
Twenty-eight years ago today, on Sunday, September 13, 1998, the Cubs made a dramatic comeback against the Brewers. Trailing 10-8 in the ninth inning, Sammy Sosa's 62nd home run narrowed the gap to 10-9. Henry Rodriguez followed with a double, and Gary Gaetti singled in pinch-runner Jason Maxwell to tie the game. The hero of the day emerged in the bottom of the tenth when Mark Grace hit a walk-off home run, securing an 11-10 victory in a thrilling encounter that remains etched in Cubs history.
Pitching Matchup: Matthew Boyd vs. Bubba Chandler
Matthew Boyd, the left-handed pitcher, has shown signs of recovery after a challenging August. His two September starts against the Brewers, despite an ERA of 4.38 and a WHIP of 1.216, saw him perform effectively, with some runs attributed after his departure. His previous encounter with the Pirates on July 24 at PNC Park was impressive, allowing only one run over seven innings. On the opposing side, Bubba Chandler, the right-handed pitcher, has experienced a season of fluctuating performances in his debut MLB year. However, he has significantly improved in the second half, with his ERA dropping to 3.21 and WHIP to 1.112 over nine starts since the All-Star break. A key to his improvement has been a sharp reduction in walks. In his only start against the Cubs this year, on May 27 at Wrigley Field, he yielded eight hits and four runs across five innings.
