MLB Predictions Preview … Two pitching heavy weights, RHP Rich Harden for the Chicago Cubs and LHP Randy (Big Unit) Johnson of the Arizona Diamondbacks go head to head Monday night when the two clubs embark on a three-game series at Chase Field in Phoenix. Johnson is 6-7 with a 5.23 ERA so far this season while Harden is 5-1 with a 2.19 ERA.
MLB Predictions Betting Line … Oddsmakers at online sports wagering giant Bodog (Bodoglife.com) currently have the Cubs listed as -134 money line favorites versus the Diamondbacks, while the game's total is sitting at 7½. The Diamondbacks are getting -128 money line odds as the home underdog.
This will be Harden's second start for the Cubs since he was acquired in a six-player deal from the Athletics. In his debut at Wrigley Field on July 12, he struck out 10, his third career double-digit strikeout game, and threw 5 1/3 scoreless innings. Harden was pulled after 96 pitches. The Cubs will be keeping an eye on his pitch count in hopes of avoiding injury.
The Big Unit was probably already in line for his 290th career win against the Phillies, but his two-run double certainly helped his own cause last time out. After going winless in eight starts, Johnson has won two in a row. Johnson missed the Cubs at Wrigley Field, but has never lost to the Cubs in his career, going 12-0 with a 1.98 ERA in 13 starts, including three complete games and an average of more than 10 strikeouts a game.
The Cubs blanked Houston 9-0 as a -140 favorite on Sunday. The nine runs scored went OVER the posted over/under total (8.5).
Ryan Dempter pitched eight shutout innings, allowing seven hits while striking out seven for Chicago, while Mike Fontenot was 3-4 with a home run and three RBI in the win.
The Diamondbacks lost to the Dodgers 6-5 as a as a -140 favorite on Sunday. The 11 runs scored went OVER the posted over/under total (7.5).
Mark Reynolds was 2-4 with an RBI and a run scored for Arizona, while Brandon Webb pitched eight innings, allowing one run on six hits.
MLB Game Prediction: the Cubs bats have come alive and Harden is pitching well…Cubs -134 ML.
