Chicago Cubs Set To Begin Huge Four-Game Home Series Against Dodgers

The Chicago Cubs are about to take part in a pivotal four-game series with the Houston Astros. Here is everything you need to know!

Author:
Andy Jasner
Publish date:
Apr 20, 2023 8:32 AM EDT

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Chicago Cubs

Los Angeles Dodgers

After sweeping the Oakland Athletics in three straight, the Chicago Cubs will host the Los Angeles Dodgers in a crucial four-game series beginning Thursday at Wrigley Field.

Here are the series matchups followed by predictions:

Game 1: Thursday, April 18 at 6:40 p.m. CT

Jameson Taillon (0-2, 4.50 ERA) vs. Michael Grove (0-1, 9.00 ERA)

Taillon, one of the Cubs’ prized free agent signings in the offseason, is still searching for his first victory in a Cubs uniform. He does have 16 strikeouts and looks to be trending upward. This would be an ideal time to produce his best start for the Cubs.

Game 2: Friday, April 19 at 1:20 p.m. CT

Drew Smyly (1-1, 4.70 ERA) vs. Julio Urias (3-1, 1.90 ERA)

Smyly had some early issues with his command but has steadily improved. If the Cubs can get six solid innings from Smyly, it would be beneficial and would preserve the bullpen. When Smyly starts well in the early innings, his confidence rises.

Game 3: Saturday April 20 at 1:20 p.m. CT

Hayden Wesneski (1-0, 4.15 ERA) vs. Clayton Kershaw (3-1, 2.52 ERA)

Wesneski made a solid impression in spring training and it has carried over into the regular season. The right-hander has been fairly consistent in the zone with his array of pitches. But he’ll be tested against the potent Dodgers lineup. Opposing Kershaw will also be a daunting task.

Game 3: Sunday April 21 at 1:20 p.m. CT

Marcus Stroman (2-1, 0.75 ERA) vs. Dustin May (1-1, 3.00 ERA)

Stroman has been arguably the best pitcher in the National League. Every start, he’s giving the Cubs six or more innings and he’s been virtually unhittable. It wouldn’t be surprising to see the trend continue. He's proving that he's the ace of this much-improved staff.

Series Prediction:

The Cubs are certainly capable of winning the series. If they can grab three of four, it would be a terrific result. But with the Dodgers’ lineup, don’t be surprised if the teams leave with a 2-2 split.

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