The Milwaukee Brewers (65-58) will host the Chicago Cubs (54-71) on Saturday in the second contest of a three-game series. The Cubs have won nine of the first 16 head-to-head games this season. Friday's series opener was not complete at the time of this preview.
Chicago went into Friday third in the NL Central but 18 games out of first. Although the Cubs are well out of the postseason chance, the club has still played competitively, winning seven of its last 11 games.
To two fierce competitors,
Roberto Clemente Award winners with accolades to spare.
We can't say we'll miss you.
You tormented us for two decades to earn this honor.We know you'll remember Wrigley Field fondly.
Congratulations on your careers, Albert and Yadi. pic.twitter.com/YWKiRjlmEF
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) August 25, 2022
Chicago is 22nd averaging 4.1 runs per game, 16th with 127 home runs, and third with 83 stolen bases. Chicago has three position players who have posted a WAR over 3.5 or better, led by shortstop Nico Hoerner (4.6 WAR, 7 HR, 41 RBI, 14 SB). Wilson Contreras has a 3.6 WAR, 20 HR, and 52 RBI, and Patrick Wisdom is the team home run and RBI leader (22 HR 58 RBI), and has a 1.1 WAR).
Drew Smyly (5-7, 3.47 ERA) is listed to start on Saturday. The 33-year-old southpaw is 4-3 with a 3.91 ERA in road games and has tossed three scoreless innings against Milwaukee this season.