Players To Watch
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Cubs' Nico Hoerner Shines as Chicago Prepares for Showdown with Phillies at Wrigley Field

As the Cubs gear up for their upcoming game against the Phillies at Wrigley Field, all eyes are on Nico Hoerner, whose recent performances have made him a player to watch. Hoerner, playing second base, has consistently shown his worth over the last three games, particularly shining with a batting average of .333 and an impressive on-base plus slugging (OPS) of 1.25 in one of these matches. His ability to hit a home run and drive in a run when it mattered most showcases his potential impact against the Phillies.


Jun 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA;  Chicago Cubs left fielder Ian Happ (8) loses his bat after striking out against the Philadelphia Phillies during the seventh inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

On the pitching side for the Cubs, Drew Smyly's efforts cannot be overlooked. With an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 1.0 across recent appearances, Smyly has demonstrated control and efficiency on the mound, striking out opponents at a rate of 4.5 per nine innings.


The Phillies bring their own set of top performers to Chicago, with Nick Castellanos standing out with his .800 batting average and an OPS of 1.8 in one game, driving in three runs which speaks volumes about his offensive capabilities. On the mound for Philadelphia, Ranger Suárez struggled in his last outing with an ERA of 11.571 but has shown he can bounce back strong.


Jun 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA;  Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Gregory Soto (30) delivers against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's not just about individual brilliance; baseball is a team sport where strategy and collective effort play pivotal roles. The Cubs' roster depth will be crucial in this matchup, with players like Ian Happ showing versatility and power by hitting .500 and securing an OPS of 2.75 in one game.


For fans looking forward to witnessing this clash live or from home, the game is scheduled to take place at Wrigley Field in Chicago on July 2nd at 8:05 PM ET. The broadcast will be available on MARQ network. This matchup promises to be more than just a game; it's a showcase of talent from both teams as they vie for dominance early in the season. With players like Hoerner and Castellanos leading their respective squads, fans can expect an exciting contest filled with strategic plays and standout performances.


Jun 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA;  Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. (38) delivers against the Philadelphia Phillies  during the eighth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
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