Preview
3 min read

Will Tropicana Field Witness Cubs Turning the Tide Against Rays?

As the Chicago Cubs prepare to face off against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Cubs, coming off a series of performances that have seen both highs and lows, are looking to assert their dominance on the road.


May 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Taj Bradley (45) throws the ball against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

In their most recent outings, the Cubs have shown a mixed bag of results. Their hitting has been notably strong in some games, with a .306 batting average in one of their latest matches showcasing their ability to get on base and create scoring opportunities. However, consistency at bat has been an issue, as evidenced by fluctuating batting averages across recent games (.270 and .182 in other instances). Despite these variances, one constant remains: the team's ability to drive in runs when it matters most.


Pitching for the Cubs has also seen its share of ups and downs. A standout performance from their bullpen boasted an ERA of 0.0 over 2.1 innings pitched in one game, highlighting their capability to shut down opposing hitters when called upon. Yet overall pitching statistics reveal areas for improvement with ERAs ranging from 2.7 to 4.5 across different matchups.


May 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) hits a single against the Tampa Bay Rays during the fourth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Fielding is another area where the Cubs have demonstrated proficiency with perfect fielding percentages recorded in several games but also moments where errors have cost them dearly.


As they head into Tropicana Field—a venue known for its unique challenges including artificial turf and peculiar ground rules—the Cubs' adaptability will be tested once again. The enclosed dome can play tricks on fly balls and pop-ups which means that both teams will need sharp focus and quick adjustments.


May 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Mike Tauchman (40) makes a catch on Tampa Bay Rays second baseman Brandon Lowe (8) during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

For fans planning to catch this exciting game live or from home, mark your calendars for June 11th at 6:50 PM ET. The game will be broadcasted on MARQ network ensuring you won't miss any action from St.Petersburg as both teams vie for victory under the dome's distinctive roof.

Rate the article

Related stories

Cubs to Swing for the Fences in Windy City Rivalry with Reds
Preview

Cubs to Swing for the Fences in Windy City Rivalry with Reds

3 min read
Cubs to Showcase Resilience and Strategy in Upcoming Battle with Reds
Preview

Cubs to Showcase Resilience and Strategy in Upcoming Battle with Reds

3 min read
Cubs Ready to Dominate Reds in a High-Stakes Matchup at Wrigley Field
Preview

Cubs Ready to Dominate Reds in a High-Stakes Matchup at Wrigley Field

3 min read