The Reds are 3-7 and were swept by the Pirates in their last series.. They are hitting just .184/.597 in the last week, making the mid-pack Cubs offense look like a powerhouse. Meanwhile, the Cubs are on a roll, winning 7 of 8, and getting great pitching. Cubs’ right hander Sampson has been sharp with a 2.78 ERA over his last 7 games, giving up just 2 runs over 18 innings in his last three starts. He beat Ashcraft, Friday’s starter and the Reds in August.

Ashcraft is just one game back from the IL, giving up 4 runs on 8 hits over 4 innings on his return. Don’t look for any support from the Reds’ pen. They are struggling with an ugly ERA of over 8.00 in their last games. Meanwhile the Cubs’ relievers have been very sharp. Lately.

The Reds have struggled badly in September while the Cubs are at home and probably enjoying their success down the stretch. I foresee another Cubs’ victory on Thursday. Cubs to win outright.