Books are way overvaluing Samardzija and the Cubs today. Keep in mind, Jordan Lyles as been lights out for the Astros his last 7 starts. He hasnt allowed more than two runs in any of those starts and only 1 run in four of those starts. Three of the Cubs key hitters Soriano/Rizzo/Castro are hitless in 16 at bats against Lyles.
Samardzija has been mediocre and hittable his last four starts. Several of the Astros hitters have a decent average against him. Cubs offense doesnt have much life in it and there's no way they should be a -170 favorite especially the way Lyles is pitching.
This matchup should be a pickem at best and I'll gladly take the +150 on the Astros First Five Innings.
Best of Luck.
------------------------Astros +150 First Five Innings (4 Units) --------------------