St. Louis Cardinals vs Chicago Cubs Prediction & Picks (JJ Wetherholt Key Factor): Odds Analysis & Top Props

As the Cardinals face off against the Cubs, all eyes will be on Jordan Walker, but the under on his total bases looks enticing. While Walker has flashed potential this season, recent trends suggest he might struggle against Cubs' starter Marcus Stroman. The right-hander has been effective, sporting a solid ERA and limiting hard contact, which could stifle Walker’s usual power at the plate. Moreover, Walker's recent performances show a dip in consistency, particularly against right-handed pitchers, where he’s found it tougher to generate extra-base hits. Given that the Cubs' bullpen has also been sharp lately, the odds favor a lower output from Walker in this matchup. With the line set at 1.5 total bases, betting the under feels like a smart play, especially as the Cardinals look to grind out a win in a tightly contested rivalry game.

Masyn Winn (NA) Under 1.5 Total Bases (-196)

As the Cardinals host the Cubs, all eyes will be on rookie sensation Masyn Winn. While he’s shown flashes of brilliance, recent trends suggest he might struggle to find consistent success against Chicago's pitching staff. The Cubs have been quietly formidable, with a solid rotation capable of neutralizing young hitters. Winn's recent performance indicates a dip in power, as he’s averaged just over one total base in his last several games. Couple that with the Cubs' ability to limit extra-base hits—ranking well in the league for keeping opponents in check—and it paints a picture that leans toward the under. The Cardinals' lineup has also been inconsistent, often relying heavily on their veterans. With a line set at 1.5, it seems prudent to bet on Winn falling short in this matchup. Look for him to face a challenging day at the plate against a determined Cubs squad.

St. Louis Cardinals vs Chicago Cubs : Chicago Cubs -2 (+177)

As the Cardinals welcome the Cubs to Busch Stadium, there's a compelling case for leaning into the Cubs at -2 on the run line. Chicago has been hitting their stride lately, boasting a potent lineup that’s found its rhythm against right-handed pitching, and they’re squaring off against Cardinals’ starter who’s struggled to keep opposing batters at bay. The Cubs’ offense has been explosive, averaging over 5 runs per game in July, while the Cardinals have faced their share of challenges on the mound. With the Cubs’ strong recent record, particularly in divisional matchups, their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities could pay off handsomely here. Given the Cubs’ 7.2% edge in our model and their solid track record against St. Louis, it feels like the right moment for Chicago to not just win, but to do so convincingly. Expect a confident performance that could easily cover the -2 line.

St. Louis Cardinals vs Chicago Cubs : Over 9 Total Runs (+131)

As the St. Louis Cardinals welcome the Chicago Cubs to Busch Stadium, the stage is set for a high-scoring showdown. Both teams have shown a tendency to light up the scoreboard recently. The Cardinals, with their potent lineup, have averaged over 5 runs per game in July, capitalizing on their home cooking. Meanwhile, the Cubs have been no slouches either, showcasing a solid offensive performance that mirrors their rivals. On the mound, both teams bring intriguing matchups that could lead to runs aplenty. Despite a few solid starts, the Cubs’ pitching staff has struggled with consistency, allowing an average of nearly 5 runs per game. With both offenses heating up and the stakes high, it’s hard to ignore the likelihood of reaching that 9-run mark. Expect a back-and-forth battle where the bats take center stage, making the ‘Over’ a compelling play.

St. Louis Cardinals vs Chicago Cubs : Chicago Cubs -1.5 (+146)

As the Cubs roll into St. Louis on July 29, there’s a palpable buzz surrounding their lineup. Over the past month, Chicago has been on a tear, boasting a potent offense that has averaged over five runs per game. With elite hitters like Dansby Swanson and Cody Bellinger leading the charge, the Cubs are not only scoring but doing so against tough pitching. On the mound, look for Chicago’s ace to shine. He’s been nearly untouchable lately, with a strikeout rate that hovers above 10 K/9. The Cardinals, while competitive, have struggled against right-handers, and their recent inconsistency could prove costly. Given the Cubs' ability to win comfortably, especially against division rivals, backing them at -1.5 feels compelling. Expect a decisive victory as they continue to push for postseason positioning, capitalizing on the Cardinals’ vulnerabilities. Chicago's momentum could be the decisive factor in this matchup.