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Cubs' Mark Leiter Jr. Faces Braves in Anticipated Showdown at Wrigley Field

As the Chicago Cubs prepare to host the Atlanta Braves at Wrigley Field on May 23, 2024, all eyes will be on some of the standout performers from both teams. The Cubs' bullpen has been particularly impressive, with reliever Mark Leiter Jr. showcasing exceptional form over the last three games.


May 21, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Orlando Arcia (11) rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Chicago Cubs during the second inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Leiter Jr., a right-handed pitcher, has been a force to reckon with on the mound. In his recent outings, he has maintained an impeccable ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.00, striking out batters at an astonishing rate of 27 per nine innings. His ability to keep runners off base and deliver consistent performances makes him a key player for the Cubs in their upcoming clash against the Braves.


Another notable performer for the Cubs is outfielder Mike Tauchman. Tauchman has been reliable at the plate, boasting a batting average of .400 and an on-base percentage (OBP) of .400 over his last three games. His ability to get on base and drive in runs will be crucial for the Cubs as they look to gain an early advantage against Atlanta.


May 21, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) runs to first base after hitting a single against the Atlanta Braves during the second inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

On the defensive side, shortstop Dansby Swanson has been rock-solid with a perfect fielding percentage (FPCT) of 1.000 and no errors in recent games. Swanson's consistency in defense adds another layer of strength to the Cubs' lineup.


Turning our attention to the Braves, several players have also shown remarkable performances that could impact this game significantly. Outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., despite a recent dip in form with a batting average of .250, remains a potent threat given his overall capabilities and past successes.


May 21, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) breaks his bat as he bats against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

First baseman Matt Olson has also demonstrated his prowess with both bat and glove. Olson’s hitting stats include a .500 average and an OPS of 1.85 over his last three games, alongside flawless fielding performance.


Pitcher Charlie Morton stands out among Atlanta's pitchers with an ERA of just 1.80 and striking out batters at a rate of 14.4 per nine innings across his recent starts. Morton's control and experience make him one to watch as he takes on Chicago's hitters.


The upcoming game promises to be an exciting matchup between two teams with standout performers ready to make their mark. Fans can catch all the action live from Wrigley Field in Chicago on May 23, 2024, at 6:20 PM UTC on BSSO network.

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