Yesterday’s Results for Cincinnati Reds vs Chicago Cubs

VW'S MLB DIVISION DOG OF THE MONTH

Analysis: We're locking in with the Chicago Cubs tonight, as they'll unleash on the Cincinnati Reds in their NL Central rivalry. The Cubs are sitting atop the division, two games in front of the St. Louis Cardinals and three in front of the struggling Reds. Chicago, which has won 15 of 20 at Wrigley this season, boasts an NL second-best +43 run differential. The Cubs rank tied for fourth in the bigs with 46 home runs, and third with 190 runs, while their .259 batting average is fourth-best in the majors. The Cubs snapped Cincinnati's four-game win streak in this series (all last season), with last night's 5-4 series-opening win. Mired in their four-game skid, the Reds have now allowed 32 runs in their last four, with an 8.82 ERA in those losses. And going back to April 21, their staff ERA is a whopping 6.86 while being tattered for 21 home runs while losing seven of 12. This is a terrible spot for the Reds, no matter who is on the hill. I'm not too concerned with emphasizing the starters, but in case you need validation, Cincinnati is going with Andrew Abbott (1-2, 5.97), who doesn't have a decision to go along with his 4.50 ERA in two road starts. All Cubs here, as their offense comes to life in a blowout win over the Reds.