The Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox, two legendary MLB franchises, will clash at Fenway Park this weekend in the opening game of a three-game series. The Cubs, who recently swept the Houston Astros at home, will be looking to continue their hot streak against the Red Sox. The Red Sox, on the other hand, will be hoping to rebound after dropping two of three games at Cleveland.
Rookie left-hander Shota Imanaga, who has emerged as the ace of the Cubs’ staff, will start on the mound for Chicago. Imanaga has compiled a 3-0 record with an impressive 0.84 ERA in four starts this season. The Cubs’ bullpen has also been solid lately, allowing only one run in Imanaga’s four starts.
For the Red Sox, Kutter Crawford will get the nod on Friday night. Crawford has made an impressive start to the season, surrendering just two earned runs in five outings. However, the Red Sox have somehow managed to lose both of Crawford’s home starts, despite his strong performances.
Since the All-Star break last year, the Red Sox own a dismal 1-8 record in Crawford’s last nine home starts. Last season, Crawford shut down the Cubs at Wrigley Field, allowing only one hit and striking out nine batters in six scoreless innings. However, Boston’s inability to score runs in home series openers has been a problem, while Chicago has won four of its last five road games.
Based on these trends, the Cubs appear to be a strong pick to win Game 1 on Friday at Fenway Park. Chicago has been playing well on the road, while the Red Sox have struggled at home, particularly in series openers.
