Mariners vs Cubs predictions
When the Seattle Mariners step up to the plate at Wrigley for game two against the Chicago Cubs, it’s a good bet that J.P. Crawford will continue swinging a hot bat. He’s been one of the most consistent hitters for Seattle, and I could see him finishing the night with a multi-hit game and working a walk or two—he just has that kind of plate discipline. Cal Raleigh’s power is always a threat; it wouldn’t be a shock if he launches one into the bleachers given his strong track record this year. Keep an eye on Julio Rodriguez as well—he’s got the speed to create havoc on the basepaths and is due for a couple of hard-hit balls. All eyes will also be on Emerson Hancock taking the mound; he’s been solid across five innings in recent starts, and if he can minimize walks and keep the ball in the park, the Mariners could keep things tight.
Over on the Cubs’ side, there’s plenty of firepower making this a must-watch matchup. Look for Pete Crow-Armstrong to put a charge into the ball—his mix of power and speed makes him a catalyst at the top of Chicago’s order, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he swipes a bag or even goes deep. Nico Hoerner is another guy to watch; he’s been a hits machine lately and should have plenty of opportunities to drive the offense, maybe even collecting a pair of base hits. Cade Horton will be taking the ball for Chicago, and with the way he’s been racking up strikeouts, he might very well rack up five or more punchouts before handing it off to the bullpen. The Cubs’ lineup is deep, and with Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ lurking in the middle, you get the sense that any inning could turn into a big one.
Putting it all together, the Mariners are showing some real fight—they lead the series, after all—but the Cubs just look a bit more balanced from top to bottom, especially at Wrigley where they’ve been tough to beat. Chicago’s lineup seems primed to pressure Hancock early, and if Horton brings his usual sharpness, the Cubs are well-positioned to even up the series. This one feels like it could go the Cubs’ way, with their offense doing just enough to grab the win in front of their home fans. What do you think—are the Mariners primed for another upset, or will the Cubs flex their first-place muscle?
