The Chicago Cubs are currently leading the intense National League Central race as they prepare to face off against their longtime rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals, in a pivotal three-game series at Wrigley Field starting Friday. This highly anticipated matchup will be exclusively streamed on Apple TV+, bringing the battle for postseason positioning directly to fans.
Key Players Driving the Cubs’ Revival
Chicago’s recent surge in the standings owes much to the exceptional performances of outfielders Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker. Both players have energized the Cubs’ offense with their dynamic skills, earning them spots as starters in this year’s National League All-Star Game in Atlanta. Their breakout seasons have been central to Chicago’s confidence and competitiveness on the field.
Cardinals Challenge Fueled by Former Cub Contreras
The Cardinals remain serious contenders, fueled in part by former Cub Willson Contreras, who has emerged as a key force in St. Louis’s lineup. Contreras delivered an outstanding June, posting a .881 OPS that provided a critical boost to the team’s offense. Despite a recent sweep by the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Cardinals are determined to rebound in this important series to keep pace in the division battle.
Mikolas to Lead Cardinals’ Effort in Series Opener
To counter the Cubs’ momentum, St. Louis will start veteran right-hander Miles Mikolas in the opener. Mikolas’ experience is seen as a crucial factor to help the Cardinals regain their footing against the surging Cubs and halt their rivals’ push for a divisional lead.
How to Watch the Cubs-Cardinals Series on Apple TV+
Fans eager to follow the tension-filled games should note that the Cubs versus Cardinals series will be available only through streaming on Apple TV+, the exclusive broadcaster for Friday Night Baseball. This platform will deliver every moment of the three-game showdown, promising a thrilling contest between two teams vying for vital victories as the postseason approaches.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Kyle Tucker’s injury happen?
A. Tucker, who is 27 years old, got hurt by hitting a ball off his right shin during a game with the St. Louis Cardinals. Initially, doctors thought it was just a bruise, but Tucker recently shared that further scans showed a fracture.
Q. Why did Kyle Tucker start wearing gloves?
A. Tucker explained that before wearing the gloves daily, he felt slightly breathless after 15 seconds. He decided to try batting gloves to help with this. “That’s basically how it began,” he said.