What happened: The St. Louis Cardinals announced that tonight's game against the Chicago Cubs will be available free on KMOV and Matrix Midwest, in addition to the regular broadcast. The over-the-air simulcast opens the holiday weekend series between the National League Central rivals.
Why it matters: Widening the broadcast to free channels expands reach for a division matchup that carries standings weight. Chicago entered the day at 49-38, ahead of a 45-39 Cardinals club, keeping the NL Central race close as the two sides meet again.
By the numbers: Chicago Cubs: 49-38, winners of five straight, averaging 5.1 runs and allowing 4.4. St. Louis Cardinals: 45-39, 3-2 over their last five, scoring 4.5 and allowing 4.6. The rivals split their late-May meetings, with St. Louis taking two of the last three head-to-head, including a 5-1 win on May 31.
What to watch: First pitch and the two clubs' pitching matchups headline the holiday-weekend opener, with the division standings on the line.