The Chicago Cubs come into this game against the Cincinnati Reds on a seven-game losing streak and dropped game one of the series to the Reds last night. The Chicago Cubs' offense needs to improve in a hurry as they have scored nine runs in their last three games and have managed to score three or fewer runs in five of their last seven games. The Cubs are hoping that Adbert Alzolay can get things going when he takes the mound for today's start. So far this season, he has posted a 4-7 record with a 4.55 ERA and 70 strikeouts. In his career against the Reds, he is 1-0 with a 2.61 ERA and 10 strikeouts. The Reds have been up and down the last couple of weeks but their bats are starting to come alive. The Reds have put up 12 runs in their last three games and they have scored four or more runs in five of their last seven games. The Reds will counter with Tyler Mahle taking the mound. So far this season, he has posted a 7-3 record with a 3.74 ERA and 105 strikeouts this season. Against the Cubs, he has gone 4-2 with a 3.61 ERA.

The Cubs have lost seven straight games and their offense just can't seem to score runs. They have a lights-out bullpen but have been pitching from behind as the Cubs starters have not been great. Alzolay has allowed 12 earned runs in his last 15.2 innings with 10 walks. The Reds have not been great but I like them at this price against a Cubs team that is struggling with offense and starting pitching.

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