Royals vs. White Sox Prediction and Odds for Thursday, September 1 (Johnny Cueto Keeps K.C. Bats Quiet)

The Chicago White Sox needed a win in the most desperate way on Wednesday night, to the point where I picked the struggling South Siders to cover on the run line at -1.5 (+100) on yesterday's episode of "Daily Betslip!"

For the first six and a half innings, I bit my nails as Chicago held onto a 2-1 lead, but they broke through in the 7th; eventually hanging on to win 4-2.

With their 3-13 stretch to end the month of August in the rearview mirror, Chicago looks to split the series this afternoon against Kansas City with Johnny Cueto on the mound against Royals right-hander Daniel Mengden; making his first start as an opener for what will likely be a bullpen game.

Here are the latest odds for today's series finale this afternoon from the South Side of Chicago.

Royals vs. White Sox Odds, Run Line and Total

Royals vs. White Sox Prediction and Pick

It took nearly 17 starts, but a team finally got to Johnny Cueto.

In his previous start vs. the Arizona Diamondbacks, Cueto got roughed up for the first time since May 28, allowing more than three earned runs in just under three months.

Now, the veteran right-hander faces his former team for the third time this season and in his previous two starts, he's been excellent; giving up just two earned runs in 12 innings. Overall on the season, his numbers are strong as well, pitching to a 2.98 ERA in 123.2 innings.

The Royals' bats finally slowed down in the series last night by Lance Lynn, and I think today could be another tough outing on getaway day against Chicago's second-best starting pitcher this year.

LEAN: Royals Team Total UNDER 3.5 (-108)

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