Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds Betting Odds & Predictions: June 5th 2009

Chicago Cubs vs. Cincinnati Reds
Free Pick: Chicago Cubs (-125)
Fri Jun 5 ‘09 7:10p - Click here for MLB Odds
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Big “Z” will finally get a chance to atone for his sin of bumping an umpire, throwing him out after getting thrown out himself, chucking a ball into the stands, and then taking his aggression out on a poor orange Gatorade machine. All kidding aside, it’s been a stressful season for the Cubs staff ace. He hasn’t lived up to expectations currently sitting 3-2 with a lofty 4.22 ERA and 1.45 WHIP. With the team in disarray, this is a big spot for the righty. After getting outdueled by Jake Peavy in his return from the DL, Zambrano churned out a solid effort against the Buccos (6.1 IP, 7 hits, 1 ER) before getting tossed. Before losing his April 23rd start against Cincy this season, Carlos has won his previous five starts vs. the Reds.

Micah Owings enters his 10th start of the season winless in his L/3 starts with an 8.56 ERA during that stretch. He allowed eight hits and five earned runs against the Milwaukee Brewers who handed him his 6th defeat of the season last Sunday. Nothing about the righty’s stat line is impressive. He owns a 5.10 ERA and lofty 1.56 WHIP and has allowed 59 hits and 31 earned runs through just 54.2 total innings of work. The fact that he’s walked 27 batters and struck out 35 paints a clear picture as to why he’s 3-6 on the year. He’s 0-2 in three career starts against the Cubs with a 4.29 ERA and 1.64 WHIP.

With the off day due to the rainout, look for the Cubs to make it a point to get this series started off on the right foot. They would’ve swept Atlanta if not for a blown save by Gregg in Game 1. Zambrano’s in search of his 100th career win, and I look for him to get it! The Cubs have handled Owings in the past, so there’s no reason to believe he’ll get the best of him tonight considering his current form. Roll with the visitors in what could be a higher scoring affair…