Series Preview: Cubs host Pirates to kick off the second half

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY SportsThe Pirates try to build off of their strong finish to the first half of the season as they travel north to Wrigley Field to battle with the Cubs. All games in this series will be matinees. Chicago is in first and has a half game lead over Milwaukee in the National League Central. Pittsburgh is just 2.5 games behind the Cubs and two games ahead of the Reds, who reside in last place.

The Cubs sort of stumbled while closing out the first half of their 2019 season, dropping six of their last ten which includes dropping three of four against the Pirates last week. They currently have a +55 run differential and are 29-16 at home. The Bucs have won six of their…