Chicago Cubs vs Boston Red Sox Preview, Odds & Total Prediction, 4–29–2017
At one time not long ago, the Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox were two historic franchises that were believed to be cursed from winning a World Series. After 86 years the Red Sox broke the curse and have been crowned champions three times since 2004 and now after 108 years, the Chicago Cubs can be called World Series Champions. Both franchises have been two of the best in baseball and are considered perennial World Series contenders and this is the first time these storied franchises have met since 2014,
Boston took Game 1 at home Friday night winning 5–4 with Drew Pomeranz getting the victory over Jake Arrieta. Game 2 features former Red Sox pitcher, now Cubs starter, John Lackey (1–3, 4.88 ERA) vs Steven Wright (1–2, 8.66 ERA). Lackey, who spent three-plus seasons with Boston and won a World Series title with the team in 2013, is 31–23 with a 4.45 ERA over 67 career starts at Fenway Park.
After Friday night’s win, the Red Sox have now won their last nine interleague games at Fenway Park. Steven Wright has struggled so far this season but he is 3–0 with a 2.79 ERA in five career interleague appearances (four starts).
Neither starter has been impressive this season as Lackey has allowed 11 runs (9 earned) in his last 12 innings pitched. Steven Wright allowed 12 runs in two outings vs the Orioles this season. The Over is 5–1–1 in Wright’s last seven home starts for Boston, 7–1–2 in his last 10 starts against winning opponents and 4–0 in his last four interleague starts. The Over has hit for the Cubs in 8 of their last 9 and 20–7–1 in their last 28 on the road. Both pitchers have been suspect so far this season and it’s a good opportunity for bettors to cash on the Over.
