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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (64-73) and Chicago Cubs (71-67) play the middle contest of a 3-game series Tuesday. First pitch from Wrigley Field is set for 7:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 6-5

The Pirates were blown out in a 3-game series sweep loss at home by the Cubs Aug. 26-28, as Chicago outscored Pittsburgh 41-23 in a wild series. Pittsburgh rebounded nicely with a 5-3 win in the series opener at Wrigley Field on Monday, cashing as a moderate underdog (+130) as the Over (7.5) just came through.

The Cubs had a 6-game win streak snapped, and they scored under 5 runs for just the 2nd time in the past 11 games. The Over is on a 10-1-1 run for Chicago, and the total has ended up going high in 3 in a row in the Friendly Confines.

Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Paul Skenes vs. RHP Kyle Hendricks

Skenes (8-2, 2.23 ERA) makes his 19th start. He has a 0.95 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 11.2 K/9 in 109 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 5 H, 1 BB, 6 K in 14-10 home loss vs. Cubs last Wednesday
  • 2024 road splits: 3-1, 1.66 ERA (43 1/3 IP, 8 ER), 0.78 WHIP, .168 opponents’ batting average (OBA), 9 BB, 62 K in 7 starts
  • 2024/Career vs. Cubs: 1-0, 3.00 ERA (15 IP, 5 ER), 1 HR, 2 BB, 15 K in 3 starts

Hendricks (3-10, 6.75 ERA) makes his 20th start and 25th appearance. He has a 1.53 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 6.1 K/9 in 102 2/3 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 1 2/3 IP, 6 ER, 8 H (1 HR), 3 BB, 2 K in 14-10 home victory vs. Pirates last Wednesday
  • 2024 home splits: 1-5, 5.32 ERA (45 2/3 IP, 27 ER), 1.42 WHIP, .288 OBA, 22 BB, 36 K in 11 appearances (8 starts)
  • Career vs. Pirates: 9-14, 4.09 ERA (171 2/3 IP, 78 ER), 1.30 WHIP, 6.7 K/9 in 32 starts

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates 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 6:23 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates -132 (bet $132 to win $100) | Cubs +112 (bet $100 to win $112)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates -1.5 (+136) | Cubs +1.5 (-164)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7 (O: +100 | U: -122)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 6, Cubs 2

Moneyline

The PIRATES (-132) probably owe Skenes a victory. He left Wednesday’s start with a 10-3 lead, but the bullpen absolutely imploded. The collapse sent Skenes’ girlfriend Livvy Dunne, the LSU gymnast, to social media to complain about managed Derek Shelton, and apparently, the bullpen.

While the Bucs aren’t likely to play extra harder for her, they do owe the rookie All-Star. While he has been lights out, somehow, Pittsburgh is just 5-6 across his past 11 starts. The Bucs should have won last time against the Cubs, though. They’ll get the W here, especially against an atrocious Hendricks.

Run line/Against the spread

If you’re a little more on the adventurous side, playing PIRATES -1.5 (+136) is the way to go.

While Pittsburgh has just 11 wins in 32 games since July 29, it has won by 2 or more runs 9 times. So, if you like the Bucs to win, you should like them to cover the run line, too.

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Over/Under

OVER 7 (-110) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at best.

The Over has been on fire for the Cubs lately, going 10-1-1 in the past 12 outings, while cashing at a 4-1 clip in the past 5 starts by Hendricks.

For Skenes, the Over is surprisingly 2-0-1 in the past 3 starts by the rookie righty. And, the Over has connected at a 7-3-1 clip in the past 11 games for the Pirates.

Wind shouldn’t be an issue, blowing right to left at a 9-11 mph clip, so we’ll call it neutral at Wrigley Field.

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Cleveland Guardians odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at Cleveland Guardians odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (62-71) and Cleveland Guardians (76-58) open a 3-game interleague series Friday. First pitch from Progressive Field is set for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Guardians odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 2-1

The Pirates were swept at home against the Chicago Cubs Monday through Wednesday, including a disappointing 14-10 loss in the finale. Rookie Paul Skenes left after 5 IP with a 10-3 lead, but the bullpen proceeded to blow it. The collapse was so bad that even Livvy Dunne, Skenes’ girlfriend, had an opinion on social media.

Since Aug. 18, the Bucs are just 4-7 in 11 games, and the Over has cashed in 5 of the past 6 outings, with the pitching staff conceding 10 or more runs in 3 of the previous 5 contests.

The Guardians stopped the bleeding by salvaging the series finale Wednesday against the red-hot Kansas City Royals, 7-5. Cleveland had dropped the 1st 3 games of the series to slip into a dead heat in the AL Central. With the win, and a Royals loss Thursday in Houston, the Guards are back up to 1 1/2 games up in the division with 28 games to play.

Cleveland is still just 4-9 in the past 13 games, while the Over has outpaced the Under 6-4 across the past 10 outings. The pitching staff has allowed 5 or more runs in 8 of the previous 10 contests.

Pirates at Guardians projected starters

LHP Bailey Falter vs. RHP Ben Lively

Falter (6-7, 4.25 ERA) makes his 23rd start. He has a 1.26 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 6.3 K/9 in 112 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 7 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 5 K in 3-0 road victory vs. Los Angeles Angels Wednesday
  • 2024 road splits: 3-4, 4.42 ERA (55 IP, 27 ER), 1.25 WHIP, .257 opponents’ batting average (OBA), 17 BB, 38 K in 11 starts
  • August 2024 stats: 1-0, 5.94 ERA (16 2/3 IP, 11 ER) 1 HR, 5 BB, 15 K in 4 starts
  • Has never faced Guardians

Lively (11-8, 3.62 ERA) makes his 24th start. He has a 1.19 WHIP, 2.9 BB/9 and 7.3 K/9 in 126 2/3 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 6 2/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 5 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 13-5 home victory vs. Texas Rangers Saturday
  • 2024 home splits: 7-2, 3.34 ERA (62 IP, 23 ER), 1.16 WHIP, .228 OBA, 19 BB, 46 K in 11 starts
  • August 2024 stats: 2-2, 4.28 ERA (27 1/3 IP, 13 ER) 5 HR, 12 BB, 16 K in 5 starts
  • Career vs. Pirates: 0-2, 3.38 ERA (10 2/3 IP, 4 ER), 1.69 WHIP, 6.8 K/9 in 3 appearances (2 starts)

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates at Guardians odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:12 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +138 (bet $100 to win $138) | Guardians -164 (bet $164 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-146) | Guardians -1.5 (+122)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Pirates at Guardians picks and predictions

Prediction

Guardians 5, Pirates 3

Moneyline

The safe play is backing the GUARDIANS (-164), and they’re not priced out of line. Cleveland showed some signs of life in the series finale Wednesday against the Royals, and the day off to refresh and refocus should do the Guardians a solid.

The Pirates (+138) are going to have a hard time putting Wednesday’s epic collapse against the Cubbies in the rear-view mirror.

Run line/Against the spread

If you’re a little more adventurous, forget the moneyline and back the GUARDIANS -1.5 (+122).

Cleveland has gotten tremendous pitching from Lively over the course of the season, especially at home. While the Guardians have managed just 5 victories since Aug. 14, each have been by 2 or more runs. So, if you like Cleveland to win, you should like it to cover, too.

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Over/Under

UNDER 8.5 (-105) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at most.

The Over and Under alternated in the 4-game series with Kansas City, while the Under holds a 3-2 edge in the past 5 games at home. In interleague play, Cleveland has cashed low in 4 of the past 5 against NL teams.

For the Pirates, they’re the concern with betting low. The Over cashed in all 3 games against the Cubs, with the pitching staff pounded for 41 total runs in the ugly sweep. It isn’t long since the Pirates were pitching well, though, allowing just a single run in a 3-game span Aug. 20-22.

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Chicago Cubs at Pittsburgh Pirates odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Chicago Cubs (67-66) and Pittsburgh Pirates (62-70) meet for a Wednesday matinee as they close out a 3-game NL Central series. First pitch from PNC Park is slated for 12:35 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Pirates odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 5-4

Chicago has taken the 1st 2 games of this series and is 5-1 over its last 6 games. The Cubs have scored 27 runs in the 2 wins at Pittsburgh; they have averaged a robust 9.83 runs per game since Aug. 22.

The Pirates are 1-3 over their last 4. In home games against Chicago, Pittsburgh has lost 3 straight and 4 of its last 5.

Cubs at Pirates projected starters

RHP Kyle Hendricks vs. RHP Paul Skenes

Hendricks (3-10, 6.33 ERA) makes his 19th start and 24th appearance. He has a 1.45 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 6.0 K/9 through 101 IP.

  • Last outing: No-decision, 4 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 0 K in 6-3 win at Miami Marlins Friday
  • 2024 road stats: 2-5, 7.16 ERA (55 1/3 IP, 44 ER), 1.46 WHIP, 5.0 K/9 in 12 appearances (10 starts)
  • 2024 vs. Pirates: 0-1, 7.45 ERA (9 2/3 IP, 8 ER), 1.76 WHIP, 8.4 K/9 in 2 starts
  • Career vs. Pirates: 9-14, 3.81 ERA (170 IP, 72 ER), 170 H, 42 BB, 126 K in 31 starts

Skenes (8-2, 2.16 ERA) makes his 18th start. The rookie owns a 0.94 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 11.3 K/9 in 104 IP.

  • Last outing: Win, 6 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 1 BB, 9 K in 7-0 home victory vs. Cincinnati Reds Thursday
  • 2024 home stats: 5-1, 2.52 ERA (60 2/3 IP, 17 ER), 1.06 WHIP, 10.1 K/9 in 10 starts
  • Career vs. Cubs: 1-0, 2.70 ERA (10 IP, 3 ER), 6 H, 3 BB, 18 K in 2 starts in 2024

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Cubs at Pirates odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:20 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Cubs +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Pirates -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs +1.5 (-155) | Pirates -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Cubs at Pirates picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

Pittsburgh is 4-16 over its last 20 games.

Skenes puts the best foot forward for the Bucs, but Hendricks, who has been undone by a .425 batting average on balls in play in high-leverage situations, figures as more of a 4.25-ERA performer. And so he is likely being undervalued by bettors.

As a team, the Cubs have slightly underplayed their 4.41 RPG and 4.17 RPG allowed. Now fighting for an NL Wild Card slot, CHICAGO (+140) is the value side of this match-up.

Run line/Against the spread

Look to the ML for the best leverage here. AVOID.

Over/Under

The Over has cashed is 6 of Chicago’s last 7 games. And it is 9-2 across Pittsburgh’s 11 games at home.

On a near-90-degree afternoon at PNC and with some slight Skenes fade and recent play to the Chicago bats, peg a lean on the OVER 8 (-115).

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Chicago Cubs at Pittsburgh Pirates odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Chicago Cubs (66-66) and Pittsburgh Pirates (62-69) meet Tuesday for the middle game of a 3-game series. First pitch from PNC Park is set for 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Pirates odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 4-4

Chicago beat Pittsburgh 18-8 Monday while covering as a -100 road favorite. The Cubs had an 8-run 6th inning and a 6-run 9th inning and had 8 stolen bases – their most in a game since 1913.  The Cubs had 2 players finish with 4 RBIs in the win, including SS Dansby Swanson, who hit a grand slam.

RHP Mitch Keller was the losing pitcher for Pittsburgh (4 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 4 ).

Cubs at Pirates projected starters

LHP Justin Steele vs. RHP Jared Jones

Steele (4-5, 3.07 ERA) makes his 22nd start. He has a 1.07 WHIP, 2.3 BB/9 and 9.2 K/9 in 123 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 7 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 0 BB, 10 K in a 10-2 outing vs. Detroit Thursday
  • Career vs. Pittsburgh: 1-3, 6.44 ERA (36 1/3 IP, 26 ER), 1.43 WHIP, 10.2 K/9 in 8 appearances (7 starts)

Jones (5-6, 3.56 ERA) makes his 17th start. He has a 1.11 WHIP, 2.7 BB/9 and 9.7 K/9 in 91 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 5 K in a 5-4 win over St. Louis on July 3
  • Career vs. Cubs: 1-1, 3.75 ERA (12 IP, 5 ER), 14 H, 2 BB, 11 K in 2 starts
  • First game back from a lat strain

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Cubs at Pirates odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:11 a.m. ET.

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

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Cubs at Pirates picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

BET CUBS (-145).

Chicago enters as the hotter team, being 7-3 in its last 10 overall and 3-1 in its last 4 on the road while the Pirates are 5-5 in their last 10 overall and 1-2 in their last 3 at home.

The Cubs are also 3-1 in their last 4 matchups vs. the Pirates in Pittsburgh, also being 2-1 in the last 3 meetings overall.

Run line/Against the spread

BET PIRATES +1.5 (-140).

Pittsburgh has come within 1-run of the Cubs in 2 of Chicago’s last 3 wins over the Pirates. Pittsburgh is also the slightly hotter team in the last 10 matchups between these squads as the Pirates are 6-4 across that span vs. the Cubs.

The Pirates have also been the much better team ATS this season, being 73-58 while Chicago is only 63-69 ATS on the year.

Over/Under

BET OVER 8 (-105).

The Over has hit in 3 of Chicago’s 4 games during this current road trip and is 5-0-1 in its last 6 games overall. For Pittsburgh, the Over is 3-1 in its last 4 games.

The Over has also hit in 3 of the last 4 Chicago-Pittsburgh meetings in Pittsburgh, being 7-2-1 in the last 10 meetings overall.

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Cincinnati Reds at Pittsburgh Pirates odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Cincinnati Reds at Pittsburgh Pirates odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (60-67) welcome the Cincinnati Reds (62-66) to PNC Park Friday for the 2nd game of their 4-game series. First pitch is set for 6:40 p.m. ET (Apple TV+). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Reds vs. Pirates odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Pirates lead 5-2

The Reds lost the series-opening game 7-0 Thursday, allowing a 6-run bottom of the 5th.

Cincinnati has struggled against Pittsburgh this season and has lost its last 3 games against the Pirates. The Reds are 2-2 over their last 4 road games and 31-32 on the road for the season. They are just 2-5 over their last 7. Cincinnati is 70-57 against the spread (ATS).

The Pirates may sit 5th in the NL Central but have won 2 of their last 3 games and are 4-3 in their last 7. They have scored at least 4 runs in 4 of those 7 games. Pittsburgh is 30-32 at home and 3-1 ATS in its last 4 home games. It is 70-56 ATS.

Reds at Pirates projected starters

LHP Andrew Abbott vs. LHP Bailey Falter

Abbott (10-10, 3.72 ERA) makes his 26th start. He has a 1.30 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 7.4 K/9 in 138 IP.

  • Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 4 ER (4 R), 6 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 8-1 home loss to the Kansas City Royals Sunday
  • 2024 away stats: 5-5, 3.79 ERA (73 2/3 IP, 31 ER), 1.26 WHIP, 6.0 K/9 in 13 starts
  • Career vs. Pirates: 1-0, 3.60 ERA (10 IP, 4 ER), 1.00 WHIP, 14.4 K/9 in 2 starts

Falter (6-7, 4.02 ERA) makes his 22nd start. He has a 1.25 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 6.3 K/9 in 107 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 5 2/3 IP, 2 ER (2 R), 8 H, 0 BB, 8 K in 7-2 home win over the Seattle Mariners Saturday
  • 2024 home stats: 3-3, 3.61 ERA (52 1/3 IP, 21 ER), 1.24 WHIP, 6.4 K/9 in 10 starts
  • Career vs. Reds: 0-3, 6.67 ERA (28 1/3 IP, 21 ER), 1.48 WHIP, 6.4 K/9 in 7 appearances (5 starts)

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Reds at Pirates odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:17 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Reds -104 (bet $104 to win $100) | Pirates -112 (bet $112 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Reds -1.5 (+168) | Pirates +1.5 (-205)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -104 | U: -118)

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Reds at Pirates picks and predictions

Prediction

Reds 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

BET REDS (-104).

The Reds are above .500 following a loss while the Pirates are 25-34 after winning the game before. Pittsburgh’s Skenes dominated Cincinnati Thursday, but Falter hasn’t been as good, especially throughout his career against the Reds. Unlike Thursday, the Reds should have the pitching edge.

Despite putting up 0 runs Thursday, Cincinnati has scored 20 over its last 4 games and should be able to bounce back. It has been better on the road, posting a 31-32 record. Given the Reds’ offensive consistency over the last few weeks and strength on the road, expect them to put up more of a fight Friday. Back REDS (-104).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

There’s not a lot of value here. The Pirates as a run-line underdog are far too expensive to play, and the Reds as a run-line favorite aren’t worth the risk either.

Over/Under

BET OVER 8.5 (-104).

The Reds have gone Over in 3 of their last 4 games and are 5-1-2 O/U in their last 8. They have scored at least 6 runs in 2 of their last 4 games and have allowed at least 7 runs in 3 straight.

The Pirates, who are 2-0 O/U in Falter’s last 2 starts, have scored at least 3 runs in 6 of their last 7 games, so they bring some offensive consistency to the table here. Pittsburgh is 4-3-1 O/U in its last 8.

Take OVER 8.5 (-104).

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Cincinnati Reds at Pittsburgh Pirates odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Cincinnati Reds at Pittsburgh Pirates odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (59-67) welcome the Cincinnati Reds (62-65) to PNC Park Thursday to open a 4-game series. First pitch is set for 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Reds vs. Pirates odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Pirates lead 4-2

The Pirates sit last in the NL Central but have still been a competitive team this season. They lost 1-0 to the Texas Rangers Wednesday, losing the series 2-1. Pittsburgh is just 3-13 over its last 16 games. In home games throughout that span, it is 2-5. The Pirates are 29-32 at home this season and 70-56 against the spread (ATS).

The Reds, despite being just a few games ahead of the Pirates, are 3rd in the NL Central. They are coming off an 11-7 road win over the Toronto Blue Jays Wednesday. Cincinnati won 2 of 3 in the Toronto series, which followed being swept by the Kansas City Royals in 3 straight at home. The Reds are 31-31 on the road this season and 70-57 ATS.

Reds at Pirates projected starters

LHP Nick Lodolo vs. RHP Paul Skenes

Lodolo (9-5, 4.55 ERA) makes his 21st start. He has a 1.20 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 9.2 K/9 through 110 2/3 innings.

  • Last start: Loss, 2 1/3 IP, 8 ER (8 R), 8 H, 2 BB, 2 K in 13-1 home loss to Royals Saturday
  • 2024 away stats: 4-4, 6.09 ERA (54 2/3 IP, 37 ER), 1.57 WHIP, 8.4 K/9 in 11 starts
  • Career vs. Pirates: 2-1, 2.95 ERA (18 1/3 IP, 6 ER), 1.04 WHIP, 13.7 K/9 in 3 starts

Skenes (7-2, 2.30 ERA) makes his 17th start. He has a 0.97 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 11.1 K/9 through 98 innings.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 2 ER (2 R), 3 H, 4 BB, 6 K in 5-3 home win over Seattle Mariners Friday
  • 2024 home stats: 4-1, 2.80 ERA (54 2/3 IP, 17 ER), 1.12 WHIP, 9.7 K/9 in 9 starts
  • Career vs. Reds: 1-0, 1 home start (June 17), 6 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 4-1 win

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Reds at Pirates odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:09 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Reds +124 (bet $100 to win $124) | Pirates -146 (bet $146 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread: Reds +1.5 (-178) | Pirates -1.5 (+146)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: +100 | U: -122)

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Reds at Pirates picks and predictions

Prediction

Reds 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

BET REDS (+124).

While Skenes has been solid for most of the season, he hasn’t been great at home as of late. The Pirates are 1-2 in his last 3 starts at PNC Park and 2-3 in his last 5 at home. He has allowed at least 2 ER in 4 straight home starts. Pittsburgh is also just 3-5 over its last 8 home games.

The Reds, who have been better on the road than at home this season, have won 6 of their last 10 away games and 3 of their last 4. They are 2-1 straight up in their last 3 road games as underdogs. Cincinnati has won Lodolo’s last 2 away starts as well.

Back REDS (+124).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

There’s no great value here. The Reds are far too expensive as run-line underdogs, and the Pirates are too risky as run-line favorites, especially considering how they’ve played over the last few weeks.

Over/Under

BET OVER 7.5 (+100).

The Reds have gone Over in 3 straight games, scoring at least 6 runs in 2 of those outings while allowing at least 7 in 2 contests as well. Cincinnati is 5-1-1 O/U in its last 7 and 3-1 O/U in Lodolo’s last 4 starts.

The Pirates are 4-3 O/U in their last 7 games, scoring at least 3 runs in 5 of their last 6. Both sides have the consistency to score at least a few and aid the total here. Back OVER 7.5 (+100).

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Texas Rangers odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at Texas Rangers odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (58-65) and Texas Rangers (57-68) begin a 3-game series Monday. First pitch from Globe Life Field is set for 8:05 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Rangers odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Rangers won 2 of 3 in 2023

The Pirates head to Arlington after taking 2 of 3 at home against the Seattle Mariners. Despite the series victory, Pittsburgh has dropped 13 of their last 16 games. They are last in the NL Central. The Pirates are 29-34 on the road and 67-56 against the spread (ATS).

Texas dropped 3 of 4 against the Minnesota Twins to begin their 7-game homestand. The Rangers have lost 7 of their last 10 games at Globe Life Field. The defending world champs are 11 games back of the Houston Astros in the NL West. Texas is 32-30 at home and 56-69 ATS.

Pirates at Rangers projected starters

RHP Luis Ortiz vs. TBD

Ortiz (5-3, 3.41 ERA) makes his 9th career start and 31st appearance. He has a 1.15 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 6.7 K/9 in 95 IP.

  • Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 2 BB, 3 K in 3-0 loss at the San Diego Padres Tuesday
  • 2024 road splits: 3-2, 2.80 ERA (45 IP, 15 R (14 ER), 1.16 WHIP, 7.8 K/9 in 15 games
  • Only start vs. Rangers: Win, 7 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 6-4 home victory on May 22, 2023

No starter was listed for the Rangers, but Jose Urena is a strong possibility. Urena (3-8, 4.15 ERA) hqs made 9 starts in his 28 appearances. He has a 1.34 WHIP,  3.2 BB/9 and 5.9 K/9 in 89 IP

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates at Rangers odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:19 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +106 (bet $100 to win $106) | Rangers -124 (bet $124 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread: Pirates +1.5 (-200) | Rangers -1.5 (+164)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -122 | U: +100)

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Pirates at Rangers picks and predictions

Prediction

Rangers 5 Pirates 4

Moneyline

BET RANGERS (-124).

Yes, it’s tough to pick a team to win when you don’t know the starting pitcher, but I’m trusting the better team at home. Pittsburgh’s Ortiz has also struggled to stop his opponents from scoring over his last 4 starts.

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

I’ll keep my bet to the moneyline especially with the Pirates unbettable at -200 and the Rangers not trustworthy with a question mark at starter.

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Over/Under

PASS.

My lean would be the Over with Ortiz on the mound, but I’m not going to recommend a bet on the total without knowing Texas’ starter. And if it is Urena, he hasn’t fared well in his career vs. Pittsburgh (2-4, 5.73 in 9 games, 6 as a starter).

Some numbers to consider as well: The Pirates are 37-35-2 as an underdog, 30-30-2 as a road team and 24-20-1 as a road underdog, The Rangers are 26-36-3 as a favorite, a MLB-worst 21-31-2 at home and a MLB-worst 13-28-2 as a home favorite.

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Seattle Mariners at Pittsburgh Pirates odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Seattle Mariners at Pittsburgh Pirates odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Seattle Mariners (63-59) and Pittsburgh Pirates (56-64) open a 3-game set at PNC Park Friday. First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. ET (Apple TV). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Mariners vs. Pirates odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Mariners won 2-1 last season

The Mariners were swept in 3 games at the Detroit Tigers. They lost 2-1 as -134 favorites in the Thursday finale as the Under (8.5) hit. Seattle is 2nd in the AL West, 3 games back of the division-leading Houston Astros, and 3½ games out of the final AL Wild Card spot.

The Pirates were also swept in a 3-game road series, wrapping up their 4th straight series loss with an 8-2 defeat as +121 underdogs at the San Diego Padres Wednesday with the Over (8.5) cashing. Pittsburgh is 5th in the NL Central. It is 12½ games behind the Milwaukee Brewers for the division lead and 7½ behind the Atlanta Braves for the last NL Wild Card.

Mariners at Pirates projected starters

RHP Logan Gilbert vs. RHP Paul Skenes

Gilbert (7-8, 2.91 ERA) makes his 25th start. He has a 0.87 WHIP, 1.6 BB/9 and 8.7 K/9 in 154 2/3 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 7 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 1 BB, 6 K in 4-0 home victory vs. New York Mets Saturday
  • 2024 road stats: 4-3, 3.30 ERA (76 1/3 IP, 28 ER), 0.93 WHIP, 7.9 K/9 in 12 starts
  • Has never faced Pirates

Skenes (6-2, 2.25 ERA) makes his 16th start. The rookie has a 0.96 WHIP, 2.0 BB/9 and 11.3 K/9 in 92 IP.

  • Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 8 K in 4-1 setback at Los Angeles Dodgers Saturday
  • 2024 home stats: 3-1, 2.77 ERA (48 2/3 IP, 15 ER), 1.11 WHIP, 9.8 K/9 in 8 starts
  • Has never faced Mariners

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Mariners at Pirates odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:12 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Mariners +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Pirates -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Mariners +1.5 (-210) | Pirates -1.5 (+170)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -125 | U: +105)

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Mariners at Pirates picks and predictions

Prediction

Mariners 3, Pirates 2

Moneyline

The MARINERS (+110) should hand Pittsburgh its 11th straight loss. Seattle is coming off an embarrassing sweep at the Tigers, but hasn’t lost 4 straight games since a 5-game skid July 12-20 (before and after the All-Star break).

This line is inflated because Skenes is starting for Pittsburgh. However, the Skenes stimulus package has ended, as the Pirates have lost 3 of his last 4 starts.

Buy the dip on Seattle. BET MARINERS (+110).

Run line/Against the spread

Seattle +1.5 (-210) will likely hit, but there is way too much vig in this line to recommend a play.

PASS. Bet the ML and/or total instead.

Over/Under

Gilbert has allowed 1 or fewer ER in 4 of his last 5 starts, while Skenes has given up 2 or fewer in 9 of his last 10. However, 7 is a key number in MLB totals. And with it dropping this morning, be careful.

LEAN UNDER 6.5 (+105).

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Pittsburgh Pirates at San Diego Padres odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (56-62) and San Diego Padres (67-53) play the 2nd game of a 3-game series at Petco Park Tuesday. First pitch is scheduled for 9:40 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Padres odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Padres lead 4-0

The Padres won 2-1 as -201 favorites in the Monday opener as the Under (8.5) easily cashed. 2B Xander Bogaerts drove in a run on a 7th-inning single, and CF Jackson Merrill dove for a game-saving catch on a liner from Pirates LF Bryan Reynolds in the 9th.

The Pirates failed to cash as +183 underdogs, losing for the 10th time in 11 games. SP Jake Woodford allowed just 1 ER on 3 hits with 2 K’s in the loss, but gave up a 7th-inning leadoff double to Padres LF Jurickson Profar, who eventually scored.

Pirates at Padres projected starters

RHP Luis L. Ortiz vs. RHP Michael King

Ortiz (5-2, 3.40 ERA) makes his 8th start and 30th appearance. He has a 1.16 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 6.8 K/9 in 90 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 4 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 3 K in 7-6 home loss vs. Padres Thursday
  • 2024 road stats: 3-1, 2.70 ERA (40 IP, 12 ER), 1.18 WHIP, 8.1 K/9 in 14 appearances (3 starts)
  • Career vs. Padres: 0-0, 6.75 ERA (10 2/3 IP, 8 ER), 1.31 WHIP, 2.5 K/9 in 2 starts

King (9-6, 3.34 ERA) makes his 23rd start and 24th appearance. He has a 1.18 WHIP, 3.3 BB/9 and 10.5 K/9 in 129 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 3 ER (4 R), 6 H, 2 BB, 7 K in 9-8 win in 10 innings at Pirates Wednesday (only career appearance vs. Pittsburgh)
  • 2024 home stats: 1-4, 4.25 ERA (48 2/3 IP, 23 ER), 1.30 WHIP, 13.1 K/9 in 9 starts

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates 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 10:58 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +185 (bet $100 to win $185) | Padres -225 (bet $225 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-115) | Padres -1.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Pirates at Padres picks and predictions

Prediction

Padres 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

The Padres (-225) are 17-3 since July 20 and 4-0 against the Pirates this season. However, it’s a losing proposition long term to bet into lines with this much vig.

PASS. Bet the run line and/or total instead.

Run line/Against the spread

Pittsburgh has lost back-to-back games by just 1 run and covered +1.5 in 3 of its 4 losses to San Diego this season. Neither starter was impressive last week in Pittsburgh, and the Padres have beaten the Pirates by 2 or more runs just twice over the last 10 meetings.

BET PIRATES +1.5 (-115).

Over/Under

Ortiz has allowed 4 or more ER in back-to-back starts, and King gave up 4 runs in Wednesday’s meeting. Both offenses should bounce back after a low-scoring series opener, and this is one of the best numbers in the market.

BET OVER 8 (+100).

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Pittsburgh Pirates at San Diego Padres odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Pittsburgh Pirates at San Diego Padres odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (56-61) and San Diego Padres (66-53) open a 3-game series at Petco Park Monday. First pitch is scheduled for 9:40 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Padres odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Padres lead 3-0

The Pirates were swept in a 3-game weekend series at the Los Angeles Dodgers. They lost 6-5 as +222 underdogs in the Sunday finale as the Over (8.5) hit. Pittsburgh is last in the NL Central and 5 games back of the Atlanta Braves for the final NL Wild Card spot.

The Padres failed to complete a 3-game sweep at the Miami Marlins, wrapping up the series with a 7-6 loss as -194 favorites Sunday with the Over (7.5) cashing. San Diego is tied with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the 2nd-best record in the NL West — 3½ games behind the division-leading Dodgers — and the top NL Wild Card.

Pirates at Padres projected starters

TBD vs. RHP Joe Musgrove

LHP Marco Gonzales (1-1, 4.54 ERA) is projected to make his 8th start. He has a 1.60 WHIP, 2.9 BB/9 and 6.1 K/9 in 33 2/3 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 4 2/3 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, 2 BB, 3 K in 9-8 home loss in 10 innings vs. Padres Wednesday
  • 2024 road stats: 1-0, 3.93 ERA (18 1/3 IP, 8 ER), 1.75 WHIP, 5.9 K/9 in 4 starts
  • Career vs. Padres: 1-0, 5.52 ERA (14 2/3 IP, 9 ER), 1.57 WHIP, 6.1 K/9 in 3 starts

Musgrove (3-4, 5.66 ERA) makes his 11th start. He has a 1.48 WHIP, 2.7 BB/9 and 8.0 K/9 in 49 1/3 IP.

  • Has been out since May 26 with right elbow inflammation; expected to be limited to 60 pitches Monday
  • Last start: No-decision, 5 1/3 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 0 BB, 5 K in 5-2 home win over New York Yankees May 26
  • 2024 home stats: 2-3, 5.26 ERA (37 2/3 IP, 22 ER), 1.27 WHIP, 8.6 K/9 in 7 starts
  • Career vs. Pirates: 1-2, 3.33 ERA (27 IP, 10 ER), 1.37 WHIP, 9.7 K/9 in 5 starts, including 0-0 with 3.00 ERA (6 IP, 2 ER) in 1 start last year

Who’s going yard? Here’s a breakdown of today’s best home run props with our top picks. Include the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE to score a $1,500 first-bet offer.

Pirates 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 10:32 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Pirates +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Padres -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-155) | Padres -1.5 (+125)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Pirates at Padres picks and predictions

Prediction

Padres 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

The PADRES (-165) have won 7 of 8 games and haven’t lost 2 straight since a 2-game skid July 14-19 (before and after the All-Star break). The Pirates have lost 7 consecutive games and were swept last week by the visiting Padres in a 3-game series.

BET PADRES (-165).

Run line/Against the spread

Pittsburgh +1.5 (-155) will likely hit — 2 of its 3 losses to San Diego this season have been by just 1 run — but it’s hard to stay profitable in MLB betting into lines with this much vig.

PASS. Bet the ML and/or total instead.

Over/Under

Musgrove’s 5.66 ERA this season is the highest of his career, and there’s no guarantee he’ll bounce back after missing all of June and July with elbow inflammation. Gonzales has allowed 4 or more ER in back-to-back outings, with the most recent start against the Padres in Pittsburgh Wednesday.

BET OVER 8 (-115).

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