The Cincinnati Reds face the Chicago Cubs in the final game of their 3-game series at Wrigley Field on Wednesday at 7:40 pm EST. The Cubs took game 1 with a 4-3 win.

Game Context

• Reds: 1 game out of Wild Card, 11 games behind in NL Central
• Cubs: 17 games back in division, effectively out of playoff contention
• Milwaukee Brewers leading NL Central with less than a month remaining

Betting Lines

• Reds: -135 (favorites)
• Cubs: +135
• Both teams 4-5-1 O/U in last 10 games

Pitching Matchup

• Reds: Vladimir Gutierrez (9-6, 4.17 ERA, 76 K)
  • Last start: Loss vs Tigers (3.1 IP, 3 ER, 1 K)
• Cubs: Alec Mills (6-6, 4.25 ERA, 71 K)
  • Last start: 5.2 IP, 2 ER, 6 K vs Pirates (6-5 Cubs win)

Recent Form (Last 10 Games)

• Reds: 3-7 record
  • 5.2 runs per game
  • 3.1 walks per game
• Cubs: 8-2 record
  • 6-0 at home until last game
  • 9.4 hits per game (vs Reds' 9.0)

Keys to Reds Victory

• Must-win for playoff hopes
• Need to find consistency
• Break out of current cold streak
• Take advantage of scoring opportunities

The Reds need this win to maintain their Wild Card hopes, while the Cubs look to continue their strong recent form despite being out of contention.

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