Chicago Cubs betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (17-10) and Boston Red Sox (15-13) wrap up a 3-game series at Fenway Park Sunday. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 1-1

The Cubs, who were -113 favorites, lost 17-0 in the 2nd game of the series Saturday with the Over (9) hitting in Boston. The loss snapped a 4-game winning streak for Chicago.

CF Ceddanne Rafaela finished with a HR and 7 RBIs for the Red Sox, who cashed as +104 underdogs. RF Tyler O’Neill also homered, helping Boston win for just the 2nd time in 5 games.

Cubs at Red Sox projected starters

RHP Hayden Wesneski vs. RHP Tanner Houck

Wesneski (2-0, 0.00 ERA) makes his 1st start and 3rd appearance. He has a 0.16 WHIP, 0.0 BB/9 and 4.3 K/9 in 6 1/3 IP.

Last outing: Win, 2 1/3 IP, 0 ER, 0 H, 0 BB, 1 K in relief appearance of 3-1 home victory vs. Houston Astros Thursday
Last start: No-decision, 2 IP, 1 ER, 2 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 3-2 win at St. Louis Cardinals July 28, 2023
2023 stats: 3-5, 4.63 ERA (89 1/3 IP, 46 ER), 1.28 WHIP in 11 starts and 23 relief appearances
Has never faced Boston

Houck (3-2, 1.65 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 0.98 WHIP, 1.4 BB/9 and 8.8 K/9 in 32 2/3 IP.

Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 3 BB, 4 K in 4-1 loss at Cleveland Guardians Tuesday
2024 home stats: 1-1, 2.45 ERA (14 2/3 IP, 4 ER), 1.02 WHIP in 2 starts
Career vs. Cubs: 0-0, 4.50 ERA (2 IP, 1 ER), 1.50 WHIP in 2 relief appearances

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Cubs at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:57 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Red Sox -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs +1.5 (-175) | Red Sox -1.5 (+145)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Cubs at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 4, Cubs 3

Moneyline

It’s unlikely that Boston’s offense will be able to maintain Saturday’s level of production; however, Houck will probably have a better start than Wesneski. Houck has allowed 2 or fewer earned runs in 4 of 5 starts, while Wesneski hasn’t even pitched more than 4 innings since June 28, 2023.

The Red Sox, who were 15th in runs per game at 4.33 entering Saturday, can’t be trusted to keep scoring runs over the course of a full game, but Houck is a good bet to keep them in position to at least win the 1st 5 innings.

BET RED SOX 1ST 5 INNINGS (-140).

Run line/Against the spread

Boston has struggled to win back-to-back games recently — let alone by multiple runs. The Cubs are also a bit too expensive to cover +1.5 at -175.

PASS. Bet the ML and/or total instead.

Over/Under

The Over has hit in the 1st 2 games of this series, but between Boston’s offense regressing toward the mean and Houck likely limiting Chicago to 2 or fewer runs, we should see a lower-scoring game Sunday. While it is a small sample size, Wesneski also hasn’t given up a run yet in 6 1/3 innings.

BET UNDER 9 (-105).

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Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (17-9) and Boston Red Sox (14-13) play the middle contest a 3-game interleague series Saturday at Fenway Park. First pitch is scheduled for 4:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 1-0; Chicago won the series opener 7-1 behind LHP Shota Imanaga Friday as the Over (7.5) cashed

The Cubs have won 4 games in a row, all against AL teams, and Chicago has picked up 6 consecutive interleague victories dating back to April 13. The Over was a rarity Friday, as the Under is 5-2 in the past 7 games for the Cubbies while going 6-1 in the past 7 against AL clubs.

The Red Sox have dropped 3 of the past 4 games. The Over has hit in the past 2 outings, and the total has gone high at a slight 4-3-1 clip in the past 8 games for Boston.

Cubs at Red Sox projected starters

RHP Ben Brown vs. RHP Josh Winckowski

Brown (0-0, 3.72 ERA) makes his 3rd start and 7th appearance. He has a 1.03 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 8.4 K/9 in 19 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 1 ER, 1 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 3-2 road win in 11 innings vs. Arizona Diamondbacks April 15
2024 road splits: 0-0, 5.11 ERA, 9 H, 5 BB, 10 K in 12 1/3 IP in 2 starts and 1 relief appearance

Winckowski (1-1, 4.20 ERA) makes his 2nd start and 9th appearance. He has a 1.80 WHIP, 4.8 BB/9 and 10.8 K/9 in 15 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 3 1/3 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 0 BB, 1 K in 6-1 road win vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Sunday
2024 home splits: 0-1, 8.10 ERA, 13 H, 5 BB, 8 K in 6 2/3 IP in 4 relief appearances

Cubs at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:10 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Red Sox +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs -1.5 (+135) | Red Sox +1.5 (-165)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Cubs at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 5, Red Sox 4

Moneyline

The CUBS (-120) are a decent play as slight favorites in this middle contest.

There is plenty of concern here, as Boston is just 3-8 this season at Fenway Park. The Cubs (-115) are on a serious roll, too, and Chicago has won 5 in a row against AL teams, while posting a plus-32 run differential.

Run line/Against the spread

The Red Sox +1.5 (-165) will cost you plenty if you require a little bit of insurance and cannot fathom the idea of playing Boston straight up.

In Boston’s past 3 losses across the past 4 games, it has lost by 2 or more runs, with an average margin of defeat of 3.7 runs per game.

PASS.

Over/Under

OVER 8.5 (-120) is a worth a look in this battle between Brown and Winckowski. It’s not likely to be a pitcher’s duel, and neither will go very deep into the game. The bullpens will be thrust into action early. Chicago’s bullpen has a 3.62 ERA, while Boston’s pen has managed a 3.55 ERA.

The Over has hit in the past 2 games for the Red Sox, allowing 13 runs in the outings.

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Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (16-9) and Boston Red Sox (14-12) open a 3-game interleague series Friday at Fenway Park. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Red Sox won 2-1 in 2023 at Wrigley Field

The Cubs posted a 3-game interleague series sweep of the Houston Astros earlier this week, outscoring the ‘Stros 14-6 while cashing the Under in all 3 outings. The Cubs have won 5 consecutive interleague games. The total has gone low in 5 of the past 6 outings, and the Under is 10-3 in the past 13 games.

The Red Sox dropped 2 of 3 games on the road against the Cleveland Guardians, while the Under is on a 4-1-1 run for Boston. At home, Boston is just 3-7 this season. In interleague play, Boston is 3-for-3 this season after sweeping the Pittsburgh Pirates on the road April 19-21.

Cubs at Red Sox projected starters

LHP Shota Imanaga vs. RHP Kutter Crawford

Imanaga (3-0, 0.84 ERA) makes his 5th start of the season. He has a 0.75 WHIP, 0.8 BB/9 and 8.9 K/9 in 21 1/3 IP.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 5 H (1 HR), 0 BB, 5 K in 5-3 home win Saturday vs. Miami Marlins
2024 road splits: Win, 5 1/3 IP, 1 R (0 ER), 5 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 4-1 win vs. Seattle Mariners on April 13 in his only road appearance to date

Crawford (1-0, 0.66 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 0.99 WHIP, 3.6 BB/9 and 9.9 K/9 in 27 1/3 IP.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 1 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 6 K in 4-2 road win vs. Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday
2024 home splits: 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 4 H, 4 BB, 12 K in 10 2/3 IP in 2 starts

Cubs at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:04 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Red Sox -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs -1.5 (+155) | Red Sox +1.5 (-190)
Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Cubs at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 3, Cubs 2

Moneyline

The RED SOX (-110) are a strong play in this interleague series opener against the Cubs (-110).

This should be a well-pitched game, and you’ll want to go lightly, as runs should be at a premium in a low-scoring pitcher’s duel. Back Boston, but have some patience, as things could get dicey.

Run line/Against the spread

The Red Sox +1.5 (-190) will set you back nearly 2 times your potential return, and that’s just too much risk for not enough reward. Over the long term, making bets with such tremendous risk will not pay off.

AVOID.

Over/Under

UNDER 8 (-105) is a slam-dunk play in this interleague series opener.

Imanaga and Crawford have each pitched amazingly well to date, with both pitchers posting sub-1.00 ERAs to this point.

Runs should be at a premium at Fenway Park, and winds will be blowing from 8-11 mph from right field to left field, somewhat limiting the potential of balls to the power alleys.

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Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (15-9) meet the Houston Astros (7-18) at Wrigley Field Thursday with 1st pitch in the final game of the 3-game series set for 2:20 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 2-0

The Cubs beat the Astros 7-2 on Tuesday and 4-3 on Wednesday. They have won 5 of their last 7 games and are 9-3 at home. Chicago has been among the best teams for bettors too, posting a 17-7 against-the-spread (ATS) record.

The Astros have lost 4 straight games, dropping 2 against the Cubs and the final 2 games of a 3-game series against the Washington Nationals. Houston is 3-11 over the last 15 days and is struggling, sitting 5th in the American League West. It is 8-17 ATS on the season.

Astros at Cubs projected starters

RHP Justin Verlander vs. RHP Javier Assad

Verlander (1-0, 3.00 ERA) makes his 2nd start. He has a 0.67 WHIP, 0.0 BB/9 and 6.0 K/9 in 6 IP.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 0 BB, 4 K in 5-3 win vs. the Washington Nationals Friday
2023 road splits: 7-3, 3.20 ERA (76 IP, 27 ER — 6 HR), 74 H, 26 BB, 62 K, .345 opponent SLG in 13 starts
Is 2-0 with a 1.98 ERA in 2 career starts vs. Cubs with 12 K in 13 2/3 IP

Assad (2-0, 2.11 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.03 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 8.9 K/9 in 21 1/3 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 4 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 3 K in 3-2 loss vs. the Miami Marlins Saturday
2024 home splits: 1-0, 0.84 ERA (10 2/3 IP, 1 ER — 0 HR), 7 H, 4 BB, 8 K, .250 opponent SLG in 2 starts
Cubs are 2-2 in his starts

Astros at Cubs odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Wednesday at 11:31 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -132 (bet $132 to win $100) | Cubs +112 (bet $100 to win $112)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+126) | Cubs +1.5 (-152)
Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Astros at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Cubs 2

Moneyline

BET ASTROS (-132).

The Cubs have one of the best home records in the MLB, but they have just 1 sweep this season which came against the Colorado Rockies, who sit last in the National League West.

The Astros were 15-12 in games Verlander started last season and 1-0 this season. They have tallied at least 4 runs in 3 of their last 6 games. The Houston offense should come alive while the Cubs’ season-long trends suggest they’ll struggle to close the series out.

Take ASTROS (-132).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

There’s not much value here either way. The Astros -1.5 (+126) are too risky as a run-line favorite here while the Cubs +1.5 (-152) are too expensive as a run-line underdog, especially considering how well Assad has pitched at home.

Ultimately, avoid this play.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 8 (-115).

The Cubs are 11-13 O/U on the season and have gone Under in 4 of their last 5 games. Chicago has allowed 3 or fewer runs in 4 of its last 6 games. It has gone Under the projected total in Assad’s last 2 starts as well.

The Astros have gone Under in 4 straight games and are 0-7-1 O/U in their last 8, pushing in a 5-3 win against the Nationals in Verlander’s lone start. Houston is 8-15-2 O/U on the season.

Considering the season-long trends for both sides and the strength of the pitching that’ll start on the mound, back UNDER 8 (-115).

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Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Houston Astros (7-17) and Chicago Cubs (14-9) play the 2nd game of a 3-game series at Wrigley Field Wednesday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 1-0

The Cubs, who were -102 underdogs, beat the Astros 7-2 in the series opener Tuesday as the Under (10) hit. Chicago jumped on Astros RHP J.P. France with 5 runs in the 1st inning. France (5 IP) didn’t allow another run after the 1st frame, but Houston was unable to pull off the comeback.

Each team had 6 hits. Cubs batters drew 7 walks compared to just 1 for the Astros.

Astros at Cubs projected starters

RHP Spencer Arrighetti vs. RHP Jameson Taillon

Arrighetti (0-2, 11.57 ERA) makes his 3rd start of the season. He has a 2.28 WHIP, 6.4 BB/9 and 10.3 K/9 in 7 innings.

Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 5 K in 6-1 loss to Atlanta Braves April 15
1.09 OPS in 1 road start this season vs. 0.68 in 1 start at home

Taillon (1-0, 1.80) makes his 2nd start this season. He was 8-10 with a 4.84 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, and 8.2 K/9 in 154 1/3 innings last season.

Last start: Win, 5 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 0 BB, 4 K in 8-3 victory over Miami Marlins Friday
All 3 hits allowed Friday were after batter swung at 1st pitch
Career vs. Astros: 0-1, 5.18 ERA (24 1/3 IP, 14 ER) in 4 starts

Astros at Cubs odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:09 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Cubs -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+165) | Cubs +1.5 (-200)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Astros at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 4, Astros 3

Moneyline

The Cubs have one of the best home records this season (8-3). Houston, on the other hand, is only better than the Chicago White Sox and Colorado Rockies on the road (3-8).

And so far this season, the Astros have only won the 2nd game of a series once in 7 tries.

BET CUBS (-115).

Run line/Against the spread

The Cubs cover 68% on the run line on no rest, while the Astros are near the bottom with a 35% cover rate.

But at -200, it is best to stick with the moneyline.

PASS.

Over/Under

Both these teams have trended towards the Under recently. In the last 10 games, the Astros have gone 6-3-1 to the Under, while the Cubs are 7-3.

On its current road trip, Houston is 3-0-1 to the Under, while Chicago on its homestand is 3-2.

LEAN UNDER 7.5 (-110).

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Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (13-9) welcome the Houston Astros (7-16) to Wrigley Field for the opener of a 3-game series Tuesday. First pitch is set for 7:40 p.m. ET (TBS). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Astros vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Astros won 3-0 last year

The Cubs lost to the Miami Marlins 6-3 Sunday, but they did win 2 of 4 in the series. Chicago has won 6 of its last 9 and is a strong 7-3 straight up at home. It is 15-7 on the run line this season.

The Astros, who were among the best teams in the AL West last season, have struggled out the gate, losing 5 of their last 6. They lost 6-0 to the Washington Nationals Sunday, closing as -162 favorites. Houston is 1-5 in its last 6 on the road.

Astros at Cubs projected starters

RHP J.P. France vs. LHP Jordan Wicks

France (0-2, 7.08 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.67 WHIP, 3.5 BB/9 and 7.1 K/9 in 20 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 5-4 loss to Atlanta Braves at home Wednesday
2024 road stats: Loss, 5 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 1 start, a 7-2 loss vs. Texas Rangers April 6
2023 road splits: 6-2, 3.11 ERA (66 2/3 IP, 23 ER — 7 HR), 64 H, 25 BB, 47 K in 11 starts and 1 relief appearance

Wicks (0-2, 5.29 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.76 WHIP, 4.8 BB/9 and 12.7 K/9 in 17 innings.

Last start: No-decision 4 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 1 BB, 5 K in 5-3 road win over Arizona Diamondbacks Wednesday
2024 home stats: Loss, 4 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 1 start, a 4-1 loss vs. Los Angeles Dodgers April 6
2023 home splits: 2-0, 3.55 ERA (12 2/3 IP, 5 ER — 2 HR), 13 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 2 starts

Astros at Cubs odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Astros -118 (bet $118 to win $100) | Cubs +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Astros -1.5 (+132) | Cubs +1.5 (-160)
Over/Under (O/U): 10 (O: -106 | U: -114)

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Astros at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 5, Astros 3

Moneyline

BET CUBS (+100).

The Cubs have been difficult to beat at home. They are 7-3 straight up but also 2-1 straight up as underdogs. The Cubs are even better following a loss, which they are here. They are 6-2 straight up after a loss, the 3rd-best record in that situation in MLB.

As for Houston, it is the 3rd-worst team in MLB as a favorite, posting just a 5-12 record. It is also just 3-7 on the road this season. Combine all the trends, and at this value, back CUBS (+100).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

For the more risk-adverse bettors, the Cubs as run-line underdogs make sense, but the better value here is on the moneyline.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 10 (-114).

The Cubs are 1-2 O/U in their last 3 and 2-3 O/U in their last 5. Chicago is 11-11 O/U on the season and, more importantly, 1-3 O/U when Wicks takes the mound.

The Astros have scored 5 or fewer in their last 6 games. They are 0-5-1 O/U in their last 6 and 8-13-2 O/U on the season. Houston is 1-3 O/U as well when France takes the mound.

Despite some struggles from the starters this season, back UNDER 10 (-114).

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Miami Marlins at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Miami Marlins at Chicago Cubs odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Miami Marlins (4-15) and Chicago Cubs (11-7) open a 4-game series at Wrigley Field Thursday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Marlins vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Marlins won 4-2 last season

The Cubs finished their 3-game series with the Arizona Diamondbacks Wednesday, winning 5-3 as +113 underdogs in the final matchup. Chicago has played 9 straight games on the road and is 5-1 straight up at home. It is 13-5 against the spread (ATS) this season.

The Marlins lost to the San Francisco Giants 3-1 Wednesday, failing to pull off the upset as +103 underdogs. They have lost 3 of their last 4 games and closed as underdogs in 12 straight. Miami is 6-13 ATS.

Marlins at Cubs projected starters

LHP AJ Puk vs. RHP Jameson Taillon

Puk (0-3, 5.91 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 2.44 WHIP, 11.8 BB/9 and 6.7 K/9 in 10 2/3 innings.

Last start: Loss, 4 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 5 BB, 2 K in 3-2 road loss to New York Yankees April 9
Marlins have been outscored 20-6 in his 3 starts
2023 road splits: 3-2, 2.22 ERA (24 1/3 IP, 6 ER), 16 H, 4 BB, 27 K in 24 relief appearances

Taillon (8-10, 4.84 ERA in 2023) makes his 1st start of 2024. He had a 1.28 WHIP, 2.4 BB/9 and 8.2 K/9 in 154 1/3 innings in 2023.

Cubs were 12-18 in his 30 appearances last season
2023 home splits: 4-6, 4.62 ERA (78 IP, 40 ER), 92 H, 19 BB, 78 K in 15 starts

Marlins at Cubs odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:25 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Marlins +132 (bet $100 to win $132) | Cubs -156 (bet $156 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Marlins +1.5 (-160) | Cubs -1.5 (+132)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -118 | U: -104)

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Marlins at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 6, Marlins 3

Moneyline

PASS.

The Cubs (-156) are fine to play on the moneyline here, but the preferred value for this one is on the spread.

Run line/Against the spread

BET CUBS -1.5 (+132).

The Cubs are the best team ATS in MLB, having covered in 13 of 18 games. The Marlins, on the other hand, are the worst team ATS in MLB at 6-13. They are 6-6 ATS as underdogs, while Chicago is 3-1 ATS as a favorite.

Puk has struggled immensely, and the Marlins have typically been blown out in his starts. While Taillon is making his 1st start, he is a veteran and should be able to perform well.

The Cubs are also 4-2 ATS at home. Considering those trends and given the plus-money value on the home favorites, back CUBS -1.5 (+132).

Over/Under

LEAN OVER 7.5 (-118).

The Cubs have gone Over in 9 of 18 games and tallied 16 runs in their last 2. They have scored at least 8 runs in 7 of 18 games as well.

The Marlins are 11-8 O/U on the season and have alternated going Over and Under in 7 straight games. Miami has gone Over in 2 of Puk’s 3 starts.

Back OVER 7.5 (-118).

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Chicago Cubs at Arizona Diamondbacks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Chicago Cubs at Arizona Diamondbacks odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (10-6) and Arizona Diamondbacks (8-9) play the 2nd game of a 3-game series at Chase Field Tuesday. First pitch is scheduled for 9:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Diamondbacks odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 1-0

The Cubs took Monday’s opener 3-2 in 11 innings after 2B Nico Hoerner tied it up in the 9th by scoring from 2nd base on a wild pitch. It was their 3rd straight win.

The Diamondbacks have won 4 of their last 6 games but are 4-7 in their last 11.

Cubs at Diamondbacks projected starters

RHP Kyle Hendricks vs. LHP Tommy Henry

Hendricks (0-2, 12.08 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 2.37 WHIP, 4 BB and 8 K in 12 2/3 innings.

Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 7 ER, 9 H, 0 BB, 2 K in 10-2 road loss to San Diego Padres Wednesday
Has allowed 5+ ER in all 3 starts this season

Henry (0-1, 5.79 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.64 WHIP, 7 BB and 15 K in 14 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 3 H, 3 BB, 6 K in 5-3 road win over Colorado Rockies Wednesday
Making 1st career appearance vs. Cubs

Cubs at Diamondbacks odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:20 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Diamondbacks -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs +1.5 (-185) | Diamondbacks -1.5 (+150)
Over/Under (O/U): 10 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Cubs at Diamondbacks picks and predictions

Prediction

Diamondbacks 8, Cubs 5

Moneyline

The Diamondbacks (-125) have not lost consecutive games at home yet this season. They have lost the opener in their last 2 series and then won the next 2 games.

Hendricks has struggled in all 3 starts he has made. Henry has allowed 2 ER in each of his last 2 starts.

Arizona has won 7 of the last 10 meetings against the Cubs (+105).

But because they usually win by multiple runs, it’s better to go with the run line.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

Arizona has won by 2 or more runs in 7 of their 8 victories.

Four of the Cubs’ 6 losses have been by 2 or more runs.

You have to like the plus odds for the Diamondbacks to cover here, especially with how Henry has pitched to start the season.

BET DIAMONDBACKS -1.5 (+150).

Over/Under

All 3 of Hendricks’ starts have had totals of 12 runs or more. He himself has allowed 5 or more in his starts.

Two of Henry’s 3 starts have had more than 10 runs as the total.

The Diamondbacks have played in 8 games this season with totals of 10 or more.

BET OVER 10 (-115).

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Chicago Cubs at San Diego Padres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Chicago Cubs at San Diego Padres odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (7-4) and San Diego Padres (6-8) meet Wednesday in the finale of a 3-game series. First pitch from Petco Park is set for 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Padres odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 1-1

The Cubs beat the Padres 5-1 on Tuesday while covering as +124 road underdogs. Chicago scored all 5 of its runs in the 5th inning of a 0-0 game and all 5 runs came via HRs: a solo shot from C Yan Gomes, followed by a grand slam from 3B Christopher Morel.

Padres RHP Joe Musgrove took the loss with 4 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 3 BB and 5 K. The Padres have not strung together back-to-back wins since March 28.

Cubs at Padres projected starters

RHP Kyle Hendricks vs. RHP Dylan Cease

Hendricks (0-1, 11.74 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 2.74 WHIP, 4.7 BB/9 and 7.0 K/9 in 7 2/3 IP.

Has had a rough start to the year, allowing 17 H, 10 ER with only 6 K in 2 starts
Career vs. San Diego: 8-3, 2.74 ERA (88 2/3 IP, 27 ER), 69 H, 10 BB, 82 K in 14 starts

Cease (0-1, 3.38 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 0.94 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 11 K/9 in 10 2/3 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 7 K in a 3-2 loss Friday vs. the San Francisco Giants
Career vs. Cubs: 2-2, 3.45 ERA (28 2/3 IP, 11 ER), 20 H, 14 BB, 36 K in 5 starts

Cubs at Padres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:55 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Padres -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs +1.5 (-165) | Padres -1.5 (+140)
Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Cubs at Padres picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 4, Padres 2

Moneyline

PASS.

This is a very tough game to be confident in either squad as they’re 5-5 in their last 10 meetings. Chicago has been the hotter team to start the season, and Hendricks has been very good in his career vs. the Padres, so they would be my lean here. However, I prefer Chicago’s odds on the run line.

Run line/Against the spread

BET CUBS +1.5 (-165).

Chicago has covered the spread in each of its last 3 games and is 4-1 ATS in its last 5. The Cubs are also 8-3 ATS this season. Chicago has covered ATS in back-to-back matchups vs. San Diego and is 5-2 ATS in the last 7 meetings.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 8.5 (-105).

The Under has hit in 6 of San Diego’s last 7 overall and is 3-1 in its last 4 home games. The Under has also hit in 9 of the last 10 Cubs-Padres meetings and is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings in San Diego.

This is only a lean because the Over is 7-4 for Chicago this season and the Padres are 6-7-1 O/U.

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Chicago Cubs at San Diego Padres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Chicago Cubs at San Diego Padres odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (6-4) continue their 3-game series with the San Diego Padres (6-7) Tuesday. First pitch from Petco Park is scheduled for 10:05 p.m. ET (TBS). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Padres odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Padres lead 1-0

San Diego rallied for a 9-8 victory Monday in a roller-coaster ride of a game. The Cubs led 8-0 after 5½ innings, scoring 4 in the 2nd and 4 in the 4th without any homers. But the Padres put together a 7-run 6th inning, behind two 2-run homers — 1 apiece from 1B Jake Cronenworth and 2B Xander Bogaerts.

The Padres took the lead in the bottom of the 8th on RF Fernando Tatis Jr.’s 2-out, 2-run blast and held on for the comeback victory. The last time the Cubs lost after leading by 8 or more runs was in 2002, according to ESPN. It was a run of 234 consecutive victories in the scenario.

Cubs at Padres projected starters

RHP Ben Brown vs. RHP Joe Musgrove

The rookie Brown (0-0, 11.12 ERA) makes his 1st career start. He has a 1.94 WHIP, 4.8 BB/9 and 9.5 K/9 in 5 2/3 innings.

In 1st road appearance, pitched 1 2/3 IP allowing 6 ER — for a 32.40 ERA — on 5 H, 2 BB with 1 K
Vs. left-handed batters (so far): 1.18 OPS with 0 K against 12 plate appearances (10 ABs)

Musgrove (1-1, 6.28 ERA) is slated to make his 4th start. He has a 1.67 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 7.5 K/9 in 14 1/3 innings.

2023 home starts: 6-1, 3.04 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, 9.3 K/9 in 10 starts — 56 1/3 IP
6-1 with 2.12 ERA against opponents with winning records in 2023, vs. 4-1 with 4.08 ERA against teams below .500%.

Cubs at Padres odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:55 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Padres -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs +1.5 (-175) | Padres -1.5 (+145)
Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Cubs at Padres picks and predictions

Prediction

Padres 7, Cubs 6

Moneyline

Monday was a heartbreaker for the Cubs, and Tuesday’s game doesn’t seem like a great comeback spot. The Cubs are 1-3 on the road to start the season. With the Cubs starting a rookie on the hill, I like the Padres.

LEAN SAN DIEGO (-145).

Run line/Against the spread

While Chicago has a poor straight-up record away from the friendly confines, is 3-1 ATS. The Padres, on the other hand, are just 2-6 against the spread at Petco.

But backing Chicago +1.5 (-175) is too chalky, especially since I am picking San Diego on the moneyline.

PASS.

Over/Under

The Cubs are off to a 7-3 O/U record to start the season. Trends for Tuesday’s game point to another high-scoring game. The Over is 5-2 (71.4%) when the Cubs are underdogs, and 3-0 following a Cubs loss. On top of that, the Over is 5-2-1 when the Padres are at home.

BET OVER 8 (+100).

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