The Cubs and Guardians split the firsts two games of their Chicago series. The 6-4 Guardians are playing better lately. Their pitching has seldom been in question this year, but the offense has perked up, climbing all the way to seventh in OPS lately. They are hitting right-handers at a nearly .300 clip in their last ten games. In spite of the ten-spot they put up on Friday, the Cubs offense is only average lately. Here is an odd stat. Chicago is a very poor 2-11 on Sundays while the Guardians are 9-5.

Taillon has struggled this year with just one quality start in June and a 5.60 ERA for the month. He has been particularly poor at home to date, and struggles after the fourth inning. Civale's (3.18 ERA) last start was his worst, giving up three runs in the sixth inning, but has otherwise been very dependable since his return at the beginning of June. In an admittedly small sample size, he has been very strong on the road this year. Both teams have very good bullpens at the moment.

I like the Guardians' chances today. While they aren't the best road team, they have a definite step-up in starters, and have been tough on any right-handed pitching, let alone one that has struggled. Take Cleveland to win.