Players To Watch
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Cubs' Happ and Pirates' Olivares Power Up for a Thrilling Encounter at PNC Park

As the Chicago Cubs prepare to face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park, all eyes are on two standout performers from each team: Ian Happ of the Cubs and Edward Olivares of the Pirates. Their recent performances suggest that they could significantly impact the outcome of this highly anticipated game.


Sep 19, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Bailey Falter (44) throws the ball against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Ian Happ, playing left field for the Cubs, has shown consistent performance. Although his batting average over the last three games might not turn heads, his on-base percentage (OBP) and slugging percentage (SLG) in one of these games highlight his potential to change the game's course. Specifically, in a recent match against the Padres, Happ's OBP was .333 with an OPS (On-base Plus Slugging) of .333, indicating his ability to get on base and contribute to scoring opportunities for his team.


On the other side, Edward Olivares, right fielder for the Pirates, delivered an exceptional performance in one of their recent games against the Angels. He boasted a .500 batting average with an impressive OPS of 2.0, including hitting a home run and driving in four runs. This standout performance underscores Olivares' role as a critical offensive weapon for the Pirates.


Sep 19, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Other Cubs players to watch include Nico Hoerner (IF), who maintained a .250 batting average with an OBP of .25 across recent games, and Michael Busch (IF), whose batting prowess was on full display with a .500 average and 1.75 OPS in one game.


For the Pirates, Connor Joe (OF) and Bryan Reynolds (OF) have also been noteworthy. Joe managed a .500 batting average with an OPS of 1.0 in one game, while Reynolds hit .500 with an OPS of 1.25 in another match.


Sep 19, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) hit a single against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

As we look forward to this matchup, both teams have players capable of making significant impacts. Whether it's Happ's ability to get on base or Olivares' power-hitting prowess, fans can expect an exciting contest filled with strategic plays and potentially game-changing performances.


The game is scheduled for May 11th at 8:05 PM at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, PA. Fans can catch all the action live on MARQ network.

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