The Cubs have lost 6 straight, and were just swept by the Yankees. At home vs. the Padres, they start lefty Justin Steele (4.79 ERA). Just 1-5 this season, Steele has had a couple of very poor short starts, but otherwise keeps ER down to 2-3. Okay, sometimes 4. Bases on balls have been an issue. His last start was a fine 7 inning, 1 run effort.

He faces Yu Darvish (3.61 ERA) who can be very good (4 shut outs to date), but is not without sub-par outings. He has had 3 poor appearances, all on the road. The first inning has been a struggle.

The Padres are 7-3, and are better on the road than at home. They didn’t do much damage in their last 3 games, just 6 runs scored total, and have struggled on offense much of the season. They do win at a better clip vs. lefties. They have a good bullpen, very good in their last ten games at 3.00 ERA. The opposing Cubs relievers have struggled to a 5.33 ERA in the same time frame.

The Cubs can usually hit, but haven’t scored more than 4 runs in their last 6 games. They are poor on the road and just 15-26 vs. right-handed pitching.

I am on Darvish and the Padres on Monday. I have more faith in his abilities than Steele’s and there is the Padres’ road success and the Cubs’ bullpen to consider. Take the Padres to win outright.