Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds 7/31/24 –As the Chicago Cubs (51-56) prepare to face the Cincinnati Reds (50-55) in an intriguing mid-summer match-up, the narrative of this game is shaping up to be a clash of closely matched underperforming teams. Scheduled for Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at the Great American Ball Park, this game catches both teams in a bid to claw their way back towards a .500 record. With the MLB season progressing, every game becomes crucial for these teams’ standings, making this an essential stop for bettors scouting the best sportsbook online.
Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds 7/31/24
| When: | Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 7:10 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Great American Ball Park |
| TV: | MLBN |
| Stream: | MLB.TV |
Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds 7/31/24
| Team | RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cubs | TBD | TBD | TBD |  |
| Reds | TBD | TBD | TBD | |
| ||||
The #Cubs today reinstated OF Cody Bellinger from the 10-day injured list. pic.twitter.com/S3xhXtao0N
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) July 29, 2024
The current betting odds are yet to be released for this match-up. However, given the recent performance trends and the starting pitchers slated to take the mound, bettors should prepare for closely set lines. Once the odds are published, it will be essential to consider both the Moneyline and the Spread carefully, especially considering the volatile nature of both teams’ recent games.
Kyle Hendricks (2-9, 6.95 ERA) vs. Nick Lodolo (8-3, 3.45 ERA)
Another struggling pitcher is Kyle Hendricks of the Chicago Cubs, who had a dreadful season this year with a win-loss record of 2-9 and ERA of 6.95. In over 80.1 innings, Hendricks has been a push over, alliving many hits and home runs; showing signs of failure in controlling the game tempo and lack of prowess in avoiding home runs. This is true bearing in mind that the WHIP of the pitcher is 1.49, which testifies to the challenges that he exhibits when confronting the batters of the other team.
On the other side of the mound, Nick Lodolo puts the Cincinnati Reds in a positive picture. While Lodolo has inferior 8-3, he demonstrated better command and productivity with a 3.45 ERA. His WHIP is rather decent at 1.11 and he has a tendency of not walking many batters and works improved hours which are 91.1. More evidence of Lodolo’s control on his pitches includes the low strikeout to walk ratio making him a tough player to beat.
When Hendricks and Lodolo clash on the diamond, the disparity in their current forms suggests a potential advantage for the Reds. Hendricks will need to drastically improve his game to match Lodolo’s consistency and effectiveness, making this pitching duel pivotal to the outcome of the match.
In-Depth Team Analysis: Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have a low batting average of .233, with an on-base percentage of .310, and a slugging percentage of .376. These statistics with a sum total of 440 runs and 105 home runs depict the image of a team that lacks the ability to produce forceful offense regularly. The pitching staff has not been spectacular but moderately consistent as seen from their ERA of 3.72 and WHIP of 1.24.
Reds’ Strategic Play Analysis
On the other hand, the Reds are batting at a slightly lower average of .228 but have a better slugging of .390 boosted by 114 home runs. Perhaps, their efficiency in translating those hits into better runs could turn out to be decisive. However, their pitching list with an ERA of 3.83 and WHIP of 1.25, has similar notes as shown by the Cubs meaning that the game could be decided on a few decisive moments.
Trends
Chicago Cubs Betting Trends
Cubs are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Chicago Cubs are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Cubs are 28-26 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Cubs’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 21 of Cubs’ 52 last games at home
Cincinnati Reds Betting Trends
Reds are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Cincinnati Reds are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread
Reds are 31-20 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Reds’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 22 of Reds’ 53 last games at home
Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds Betting Picks
Given the analysis and betting trends, the recommendation leans towards favoring the Reds, primarily due to Lodolo’s stronger pitching stability compared to Hendricks’ struggles. Bettors should consider the Reds on the Moneyline, especially if the odds offer value. The total could likely go UNDER, considering the pitching matchup and recent trends, unless Hendricks falters significantly, which would make the OVER an attractive option.
In terms of prop bets, looking at strikeouts for Lodolo and possibly runs allowed for Hendricks could offer additional betting avenues. For MLB latest free picks, keep an eye on adjustments in the line closer to game time, as these could shift the betting landscape significantly.
Score Prediction: Reds 5, Cubs 3.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: July 29, 2024
Last updated: May 19, 2025