This is an 8* on the CUBS

The Cubs dropped their season opener here at Wrigley Field on Thursday, losing 5-3. That’s an embarrassing loss considering how bad the Pirates are projected to be in 2021. Friday was an off day and we anticipate the Cubs will come out swinging on Saturday. Literally. Seven Pirates pitchers combined to hold them to two hits on Opening Day. But the Bucs aren’t going to have many games like that this year. They finished 19-41 last season, which would be an 111-loss pace for a 162 game season. They have the lowest projected win total in MLB. They also have the lowest payroll. Tyler Anderson will start for them today. He comes over from San Francisco and is one of the few free agents the team actually signed. It’s likely he won’t be asked to go long, but we don’t think a bullpen that looks shaky on paper will be as effective as it was Thursday. For the Cubs, starter Jake Arrieta is in his second tour of duty. He’s always enjoyed facing Pittsburgh in the past (12-6 record, 2.93 ERA in 23 career starts) and should do well here. This is all about fading the worst team in baseball. Play on CHICAGO CUBS

AAA