Tigers Preview: Cubs and Tigers battle for series win in Chicago

The Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tigers are set to face off in a crucial rubber match on Thursday, with both teams looking to gain an edge in their three-game series.

The game will take place at 2:20 p.m. EDT in Chicago, and the teams are currently tied 1-1 in the series.

Both teams share identical records of 62-65, with the Cubs holding a slight advantage at home with a 35-29 record.

The Cubs have been particularly strong when scoring five or more runs, boasting a 44-8 record in those games.

On the other hand, the Tigers have performed well on the road, going 31-33, and have a solid 30-16 record in games where they haven't allowed a home run.

Cubs pitcher Justin Steele, who has a 3.10 ERA and 115 strikeouts this season, is expected to take the mound. The Tigers have yet to announce their starting pitcher for the matchup.

Key players to watch include Ian Happ for the Cubs, who has 26 doubles, 22 home runs, and 69 RBIs this season. Cody Bellinger has also been a standout, hitting .270 with two home runs and seven RBIs over the last ten games.

For the Tigers, Riley Greene has contributed significantly with 21 doubles and 18 home runs, while Colt Keith has been hitting well, going 13-for-41 in his last ten games.

In their last ten games, the Cubs have gone 5-5 with a .216 batting average and a 3.58 ERA, while the Tigers have thrived with a 7-3 record, a .248 batting average, and a 2.00 ERA.

Injury concerns linger for both teams. The Cubs are missing several players, including Tomas Nido and Ben Brown, while the Tigers are without Wenceel Perez and Casey Mize among others.

As the series wraps up, both teams will be eager to secure a win and improve their standings in the playoff race.