Cubs Pursue Playoff Aspirations Against Rays as Colin Rea Aims for Key Victory
The Chicago Cubs are on the brink of securing a National League playoff spot, and they’ll look to take another crucial step forward on Saturday as they face the Tampa Bay Rays at Wrigley Field.
Recent Performance and Series Context
After a strong showing in their series opener, where they emerged victorious with a 6-4 win over the Rays on Friday, the Cubs (84-63) are eager to clinch the series. Ian Happ’s impressive 21st home run of the season and a solid pitching performance from left-hander Matthew Boyd (13-8) propelled Chicago closer to their first postseason appearance since they clinched the National League Central title during the COVID-shortened 2020 season.
Game Details
Date: Saturday, September 13
Start Time: 1:20 p.m. CT
Where to Watch: Marquee Sports Network (Cubs); FanDuel Sports Network Sun (Rays)
Listen: 670 The Score, WRTO 1200 (Cubs); WDAE 620 AM/95.3 FM, WQBN/1300AM (Rays)
Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago
Probable Pitchers
Cubs: Colin Rea (RHP, 10-6, 4.20 ERA)
Colin Rea is looking to regain his footing as he takes the mound. Despite not earning a decision in his last two starts, Rea’s outing against Washington on September 7 showed promise. He pitched 5.1 innings, allowing just three hits and one earned run while striking out six. This performance is vital as the Cubs approach the playoffs, and Rea is keen to improve upon his career-high win total of 12, set last season with Milwaukee. Across 29 games this year, Rea has recorded 104 strikeouts against 43 walks in 141.1 innings. However, he faces challenges as hitters are batting .265 against him.
Rays: Drew Rasmussen (RHP, 10-5, 2.64 ERA)
On the opposing mound, Drew Rasmussen has been a reliable force for the Rays. Although he hasn’t received a decision in his last three outings, his performance has been consistently strong. With a 1.83 ERA over his last seven games, Rasmussen boasts 30 strikeouts and only six walks in 39.1 innings. His recent form includes a 5-1 record and a 3.06 ERA in his last 15 starts, showcasing his dominance on the hill. Throughout his four seasons with the Rays, Rasmussen has never posted an ERA above 2.84, making this season his most productive yet, with 117 strikeouts and 31 walks in 139.2 innings.
Injury Updates
The Cubs are currently managing several injuries as they navigate the final stretch of the season:
Kyle Tucker, OF (10-day IL) – Dealing with left calf tightness, Tucker has been held out this weekend, with hopes of a pain-free return to baseball activities as early as September 17.
Miguel Amaya, C (10-day IL) – Amaya is recovering from a left ankle sprain and his potential return hinges on successful rehab games at Triple-A.
Daniel Palencia, RHP (15-day IL) – Palencia is on track to return by September 24 following a right shoulder strain.
Michael Soroka, RHP (15-day IL) – Soroka is set to make his next start after a successful rehab outing with Triple-A Iowa.
Ryan Brasier, RHP (15-day IL) – Brasier is still on the mend from a left groin strain, with no significant updates since his bullpen session in Atlanta.
Long-Term Injuries
Eli Morgan, RHP (60-day IL) – Morgan is currently on a rehab assignment at Triple-A Iowa.
Justin Steele, LHP (60-day IL) – Steele is out for the season following surgery for a left ulnar collateral ligament injury.
Looking Ahead
As the Cubs prepare for this pivotal matchup against the Rays, they remain focused on their playoff ambitions. Saturday’s game could prove crucial in solidifying their postseason chances, and with Colin Rea on the mound, the team hopes to capitalize on the momentum from their recent victory.
