Cubs Set Sights on Seattle: A Crucial Weekend Ahead

The Leadoff Man

This weekend, the Chicago Cubs head to Seattle in a much-anticipated face-off against the Mariners. With both teams eager to climb the rankings in their respective divisions, this series promises to be a showdown of young pitchers, skilled Cubs hitters, and potentially, a showcase of new pitches. Plus, we've got the lowdown on how to watch the games on AppleTV+ without breaking the bank. Buckle up, Cubs fans, we're diving into a weekend of high stakes and high balls!

Weekend Pitcher Duel: A Closer Look

The Cubs and Mariners face off with promising pitchers at the helm. 

This weekend in Seattle, the Cubs aim to bounce back, boasting a stronger recent performance compared to the Mariners.

Friday’s match pits Cubs’ Jordan Wicks against Mariners’ Bryce Miller, who's added a new splitter pitch to tackle left-handed hitters. Miller's strategy to overcome last year’s challenges against lefties could add an exciting twist to the series, especially for Ian Happ, Cody Bellinger, and Michael Busch.

Saturday sees Shota Imanaga, with an impressive 10 innings, 4 hits, and a 0.00 ERA, face Emerson Hancock, who gave up 8 runs on 11 hits to the Brewers on April 7th. Hancock, who lasted only until the 4th inning. Hancock struggles against right-handed hitters.

Friday is for Left-Handed Cubs Hitters.

Saturday is for Right-Handed Cubs Hitters.

Navigating the AppleTV+ Broadcast

Yes, AppleTV+ is required to watch the Cubs-Mariners series, but there's a workaround.

For fans miffed about the exclusive broadcasting of the Cubs vs. Mariners series on AppleTV+, there's a silver lining. MLB's partnership with Apple aims to expand the game's reach and offer an innovative viewing experience with advanced technology. If the subscription fee is a barrier, consider using the free trial link we found (not affiliated with us) to enjoy the series.

For a stats nerd like me, I do enjoy the graphics shared during the broadcast. AppleTV doesn’t always have the announcers in the stadium, so they are broadcasting from a studio somewhere. This can be annoying, but no one knows the Cubs like we do, so I’m sure the broadcasters will get something wrong, and Cubs Twitter will have something to say.

Series Expectations: Hope on the Horizon

Optimism runs high for the Cubs to clinch the series with strategic pitching and batting. 

Facing a Mariners team struggling at the plate, the Cubs have a tangible opportunity to secure a series win this weekend. With the Mariners hitting only .196 at home, the spotlight shines on Cubs pitchers Jordan Wicks and Shota Imanaga to lead the charge. The Cubs' batting lineup, consistently getting on base, coupled with Seattle's underwhelming home performance, sets the stage for a potentially victorious series. Eyes are also on Julio Rodriguez, whose talent remains a wildcard for the Mariners. I will not be content with anything less than 2 victories in 3 games in Seattle.

The Closer

As the Cubs prepare to take on the Mariners, all eyes are on the promising matchups and strategic plays that could define the weekend. With an array of pitching talent on display and the Cubs' batters in form, this series could be a turning point. And while the exclusive AppleTV+ broadcast may pose a hiccup for some, it represents a leap towards a more global and technologically savvy baseball audience.

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