10* Chi Cubs (8:05 ET): Cincinnati missed out on a chance to sweep St. Louis again as they lost 10-6 on Sunday. Now they are set to face another divisional foe that they previously swept, that being the Cubs. It was Fourth of July weekend that the Reds won three one-run games over the Cubs at Great American Ballpark (2-1, 3-2 and 3-2). For the Cubs, that was part of an awful 11-game win streak that essentially took them out of the race in the NL Central. They’ve played better recently though and now get the Reds at Wrigley where they’re a strong 30-18 on the season. I expect the Cubs to gain a measure of revenge today.

The Over was a winner for me yesterday when the Reds hosted the Cardinals. That ended up being a 10-6 loss for Cincy as they fell victim to a seven-run inning (4th) and never really recovered. Pitching has been an issue for this team all season and ultimately will be the reason this club does NOT make the postseason. The only National League team to have allowed more runs than the Reds is Arizona and everyone knows how bad the D’backs are.

Wade Miley will start Monday’s game for Cincy. He’s been their best starter as he tossed a no-hitter back on May 7th and has a 5-0 TSR his L5 starts. But he was fortunate to allow only two runs the last time he faced the Cubs as he also gave up 10 hits. Miley’s career ERA at Wrigley is 4.88. Kyle Hendricks goes for the Cubs. He’s 12-4 this year and has allowed 3 ER or less in 12 of his L13 starts, going at least six innings every time out. With Hendricks, the Cubs have the edge on the mound in this series opener. The Reds have dropped six of nine since the All-Star Break - all at home. 10* Chi Cubs