WhatIfSports World Series prediction: the Curse of the Billy Goat ends tonight
Throughout the World Series, WhatIfSports.com has been simulating the remaining games to determine which team has the upper hand. At the start of the World Series, we anointed the Chicago Cubs as the heavy favorites, winning 75.2 percent of simulations. But the odds shifted in favor of the Cleveland Indians as their wins kept mounting. When the Indians claimed a 3-1 series lead, our MLB simulation engine placed their probability to win the title at 72.3 percent.
Now, with the World Series heading to a Game 7, we're submitting our final simulated prediction. We played the Cubs vs. Indians 101 times with Kyle Hendricks and Corey Kluber on the mound for their squads. Check out how each team fared:
| Cubs vs. Indians Prediction for Game 7 | ||
| Matchup | Win % | Avg. Score |
| Cubs | 56.4 | 4.16 |
| Indians | 43.6 | 3.28 |
Thus far, Kluber has allowed one run in two World Series starts, but the simulations aren't as optimistic about another start on short rest. Kluber posted a 4.09 ERA in the simulations. The Indians' bullpen continued its strong postseason performance though, with a collective 3.27 ERA, led by Andrew Miller (2.89 ERA) and Cody Allen (2.60 ERA).
Hendricks' Game 3 start was a little shaky at times, with six hits and two walks in 4.1 innings, but he successfully held the Indians scoreless. WhatIfSports projects a solid Game 7 showing, with Hendricks generating a 3.50 ERA. Chicago's bullpen managed a sensational 2.51 ERA in the simulations.
If the prediction holds true, the Cubs will be hoisting their first World Series trophy since 1908.
Interested in simulating the game yourself? Try MLB SimMatchup. Or, create your own Dream Team of current and historical players to challenge your favorite club.
