Royals (Keller) vs Cubs (Davies)

If you took a look at these teams’ last three games, you could be forgiven for doing a double take, as the Cubs took 2 of 3 from the Reds, and the Royals took 2 of 3 from the Astros. So what are we to expect from these two recently rejuvenated cellar-dwellers. With Keller and Davies on the mound, it is not likely to be low scoring. The Cubs starter Davies was good in his last start vs Miami, but gave up a pair of sevens in his previous 2 starts, lasting only 6 innings total. Brad Keller (7-12, 5.69) has been somewhat better of late, keeping his Era to a respectable 3.61 over his last 7 starts. He hasn’t faced most of the Cubs’ hitters.

Don’t look for a lot of relief for Davies. The Cubs bullpen has an ERA of 7.07. KC’s has been much better.

The offensive stats are not positive for either team. KC is 20-37 on the road and 32-49 against right handers. The Cubs are not a bad road team for the season, but are much worse of late. They are 3-7 in inter-league play and 37-51 against right-handed pitchers. I prefer Keller here. Their recent success vs. the Red notwithstanding, the Cubs have been pretty dismal since the trade deadline. Th bullpen record is pretty telling. Take the Royals to win outright.