The Cubs are big underdogs and rightfully so. They've lost their last six as road dogs by a combined 52-11. Overall, they've lost 14 of 17. Kyle Hendricks has struggled everywhere but especially on the road (5.81 ERA). Cardinals rookie Andre Pallante has been rock-solid in his three starts, allowing a total of three earned runs over 15 innings. Look for St. Louis to improve to 11-4 in the last 15 meetings with its hated rivals.

Kyle Hendricks was supposed to be the Cubs' ace and top trade chip, but he's been terrible with a 5.43 ERA -- 5.81 on the road. The Cardinals obviously know him and that changeup well. Knowing the Cubs as I do, also tend to think Willson Contreras sits today as he hasn't had a game off in a few weeks so that's potentially one fewer worry for solid Cards pitcher Andre Pallante (2-2, 1.69 ERA). He won't go deep but usually is quality. Also note that Chicago used its two best relievers yesterday in a loss at Pittsburgh so they may not be available. Not sure it will matter. This line should be more like -180 in my opinion. Per usual, I recommend waiting on lineups, but I don't have that option today. The Cubbies are 1-8 in their past nine away. The Cards are 8-2 in their past 10 at home.

Andre Pallante has been very good this season and since he was converted into a starter. He has a 1.69 ERA in 21 appearances this season. When he gets in trouble, it is with walks. But he has only had one walk in each of his past two games. He also faced the Cubs earlier this season and allowed just 1 ER in 4 IP. Kyle Hendricks is very hit or miss and he was hit hard in his last outing. The Cardinals head home where they are 21-13 on the season and 6-2 in June. The Cubs are 6-15 in June and 1-7 on the road in June. I like the Cardinals here.