Preview: Omaha Storm Chasers at Iowa Cubs

DES MOINES, Iowa (Interstat) — Two teams knotted in the standings will continue their early-season series when the Omaha Storm Chasers visit the Iowa Cubs on Saturday evening at Principal Park.

Both clubs carry identical 6-5 records into the 6:35 p.m. contest, which will be played under clear skies with a first-pitch temperature near 54 degrees.

The series has been a back-and-forth affair. Omaha took the most recent game 6-4 on Friday afternoon, but Iowa posted a 12-4 victory on Wednesday. The Storm Chasers have won three of the first four meetings this week.

Omaha will hand the ball to right-hander Ben Kudrna (0-0, -.-- ERA), making his first appearance of the season. He will be opposed by an Iowa pitcher to be announced.

A player to watch for Omaha is reliever Aaron Sanchez, who earned the win Friday with 4 2/3 innings of two-run ball, striking out five. His recent outings have been volatile, however, including a tough start on March 29 where he allowed seven earned runs to Louisville.

For Iowa, right-hander Tyler Santana is a key figure out of the bullpen. He took the loss Friday despite allowing just one earned run over 4 1/3 innings. He has been effective in two of his last three appearances, including three scoreless frames at Louisville on April 5.

Offensive standouts from Friday’s game include Omaha center fielder John Rave, who went 3 for 3 with two RBIs. For Iowa, catcher Christian Bethancourt provided power, going 2 for 4 with a home run and two RBIs.

According to Interstat, the Cubs are projected favorites with a 58% probability to win. Their game simulator predicts a 7-5 victory for Iowa.

Following Saturday’s game, the series concludes Sunday before both teams embark on new series Tuesday. Omaha returns home to face Indianapolis, while Iowa travels to face Columbus.