The D-backs are just 4-6, with pitching woes. Ryne Nelson was just reactivated after a pair of very poor starts in early August sent him back to the minors. He can struggle in the early innings and gave up far too many HRs in July and August. He will face a hot Cubs' starter in Assad. He is off his best and longest outing since converting to starting in August, pitching 8 innings of shut out ball. Assad held the opposition to a .198 BA last month. The 6-4 Cubs are holding down a wild card spot at the moment. They are a good home team and tough against right handers. Chicago has a very healthy run differential lately, and a solid bullpen. The D-back as of Wednesday AM are just 2.7/5.4 in runs for and against. Arizona is very short on starting pitching, hence the Nelson call-up. They've had too many short outings from their starters, resulting in bullpen overload. Take Assad and the Cubs to win the opener. Chicago on the run line at -1.5.