This is a 10* TOTAL on the UNDER Cards/Cubs.

Both teams have been playing to several high-scoring games of late, including in both shortened contests of yesterday's double-header.

The Cardinals have now won 16 in a row and they'll be looking to keep the good times rolling on Saturday.

But while both have seen the total soar over the number at a prolific rate of late, I like the way that Saturday's contest finally sets up as a "DUEL."

The visitors go with Jon Lester, who is 4-1 with a 4.02 ERA and who gave up two runs over six innings in a win over the Brewers on Monday.

Lester is 4-0 with a 2.76 ERA and 24:15 K:BB since August 14th.

The home side goes with Adrian Sampson, who is 1-2 with a 2.84 ERA, who comes in off a four inning relief appearance against the Brewers and who owns a tiny 1.62 ERA at Wrigley.

Look for these two "in form" starting pitchers to battle each other deep and expect this one to fall well UNDER this sky-high number.

Good luck, NP