Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs odds predictions pick betting line spread

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

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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 Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (21-26) visit the Chicago Cubs (26-21) at Wrigley Field Sunday to finish their 4-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 3-3

It was a pitchers’ duel in Chicago Saturday. Both teams combined for 9 hits and 15 K’s in a 1-0 Cubs victory. The line of 8.5 total runs didn’t come close, while those who bet Chicago (-210) came away thankful.

Cubs LHP Shota Imanaga lowered his ERA to 0.84 and 3B Christopher Morel brought in the only run, a single in the bottom of the 9th inning to walk it off.

Pirates LHP Bailey Falter also showed off his arm, throwing for 7 2/3 innings and allowing just 3 hits.

Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Mitch Keller vs. RHP Jameson Taillon

Keller (4-3, 3.93 ERA) makes his 10th start. He has a 1.32 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 8.3 K/9 in 55 innings.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 0 ER, 8 H, 0 BB, 7 K in 8-6 road win at Milwaukee Brewers Monday
2024 road stats: 2-2, 4.03 ERA (29 IP, 13 ER) in 5 starts

Taillon (3-1, 1.61 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 1.10 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 5.8 K/9 in 28 innings.

Last start: Loss, 4 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 2 K in 7-0 loss to Atlanta Braves Tuesday
2024 home stats: 3-0, 1.08 ERA (16 2/3 IP, 2 ER) in 3 starts

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Pirates 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 9:40 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Cubs -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-200) | Cubs -1.5 (+165)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 7, Pirates 3

Moneyline

The Cubs are 14-8 (63.6%) straight up at Wrigley this year. On top of that, they post a 12-7 record (63.2%) as favorites.

LEAN CUBS (-125).

Run line/Against the spread

Coming off of a loss, the Pirates have the worst cover rate in baseball at 9-16 (36%). But after a win, the Cubs are not something to rest your hat on. They are 12-13 (48%) and 2-7 (22.2%) against divisional opponents.

I personally would stick with the moneyline.

AVOID.

Over/Under

Despite last game, the Cubs and Pirates tend to go Over when they play against NL Central teams. Chicago has an Over record of 5-3-1 (62.5%), while Pittsburgh’s is 7-5-1 (58.3%). I expect a rebound from both teams after Saturday’s offensive woes.

BET OVER 7.5 (-105).

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (20-25) and Chicago Cubs (25-20) play the 2nd contest in a 4-game series Friday at Wrigley Field. First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 2-2

The Pirates secured a 5-4 win in the series opener Thursday as slight underdogs (+105) as the Over (8) cashed. As a ‘dog, the Pirates are 3-3 in the past 6 games straight up, while cashing on the run line as an underdog in 5 of those outings. The Over is 6-1-2 across the previous 9 contests, too, including 3-0-1 vs. Chicago this season.

The Cubs have dropped 3 of the past 4 games at home, and they’re just 1-3 straight up in the past 4 outings. The Under has cashed in 3 of the past 4 games, with the offense averaging 2.8 runs per game (RPG), including 2 shutout losses. The pitching has yielded just 19 total runs in the past 5 outings, or 3.8 RPG.

The Cubs won 2 of 3 games in Pittsburgh in the 1st 3 meetings of the season, outscoring the Bucs 21-16. The Over was 2-0-1 in that series at PNC Park. The favorite is just 1-3 in 4 meetings between these teams this season.

Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Paul Skenes vs. RHP Kyle Hendricks

Skenes (0-0, 6.75 ERA) makes his 2nd start. He has a 2.00 WHIP, 4.5 BB/9 and 15.8 K/9 in 4 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 3 ER, 6 H (1 HR), 2 BB, 7 K in 10-9 home win vs. Cubs last Saturday
Triple-A Indianapolis stats: (0-0, 0.99 ERA) with 0.92 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 14.8 K/9 in 27 1/3 IP across 7 starts

Hendricks (0-3, 10.04 ERA) makes his 7th start. He has a 1.92 WHIP, 3.8 BB/9 and 7.3 K/9 in 26 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 1 ER, 2 H (solo HR), 4 BB, 5 K in 5-4 road win in 10 innings vs. Pirates last Sunday
Last home start: Loss, 4 IP, 4 ER, 6 H, 0 BB, 5 K in 6-3 loss vs. Miami Marlins April 21

Pirates 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 6:26 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Cubs -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-225) | Cubs -1.5 (+170)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 6, Cubs 4

Moneyline

The PIRATES (-110) are worth a look, as Skenes makes his 1st career road start. He already has faced the Cubs (-110) before, and he did OK. He should fare better in the 2nd time through the Chicago lineup.

On the flip side, Hendricks has been a disaster for the Cubbies so far, with an ERA north of 10. Until he starts to show some consistency, you need to fade the Cubs when Hendricks is on the bump.

Run line/Against the spread

The Pirates +1.5 (-225) will set you back more than 2 times your potential return. That’s way too much risk, and not enough reward, if you require insurance, and you just can’t bring yourself to play Pittsburgh straight up on Skenes Day.

PASS.

Over/Under

OVER 7.5 (-105) is the lean, despite the fact the weather forecast calls for the winds to blow in from 7-10 mph from center field into the 3rd base dugout.

Still, with the way Hendricks has been coughing up runs, we’re likely to see the Pittsburgh offense come alive. And while it’s likely Skenes and the Bucs get the job done, it should be a higher-scoring affair.

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (19-25) and Chicago Cubs (25-19) open a 4-game series at Wrigley Field Thursday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM 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 2-1

The Pirates are coming off a 10-2 loss as +135 underdogs at the Milwaukee Brewers Wednesday. LHP Martín Pérez allowed 9 ER (5 HR) in 5 innings, which helped the Over (8) easily cash.

Chicago won 7-1 as a +164 underdog at the Atlanta Braves Wednesday as the Under (9) cashed. RHP Javier Assad pitched 6 scoreless innings for the Cubs, who avoided being swept in 3 games.

Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Jared Jones vs. LHP Justin Steele

Jones (2-4, 2.68 ERA) makes his 9th start. The rookie has a 0.87 WHIP, 1.3 BB/9 and 10.7 K/9 in 47 IP.

Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 2 ER (3 R), 2 BB, 4 K in 7-2 home defeat vs. Cubs Friday
Road stats: 1-2, 3.68 ERA (22 IP, 9 ER), 0.86 WHIP in 4 starts

Steele (0-0, 4.73 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.20 WHIP, 2.7 BB/9 and 7.4 K/9 in 13 1/3 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 4 IP, 6 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 3 K in 10-9 loss at Pirates Saturday
2024 home stats: 0-0, 0.00 ERA (4 2/3 IP), 3 H, 1 BB, 2 K in 1 start, a 6-3 setback vs. San Diego Padres May 6
Career vs. Pirates: 1-2, 6.46 ERA (30 2/3 IP, 22 ER), 1.47 WHIP in 6 starts and 1 relief appearance, including 0-1 with an 8.00 ERA (9 IP, 8 ER) in 2 starts last season

Pirates 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 12:01 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Cubs -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-200) | Cubs -1.5 (+165)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 3, Cubs 2

Moneyline

Pittsburgh (+105) has the advantage at starting pitcher with Jones, who has allowed 2 or fewer ER in 5 of his last 7 starts. Steele has surprisingly struggled when facing the Pirates in his career and gave up 3 HRs in just 4 IP against them on Saturday.

However, the Cubs offense may come back to life in later innings against the Pirates bullpen, making the 1st 5 innings a slightly safer play.

BET PIRATES FIRST 5 INNINGS (+100).

Run line/Against the spread

Pittsburgh +1.5 (-200) should cover, but it’s a losing proposition long term to lay -200 on a team in MLB.

PASS. Bet Pirates 1st 5 innings and/or the total instead.

Over/Under

The Under has hit in 3 straight Cubs games as they have scored a total of just 7 runs over that span — all in their last game after back-to-back shutouts. Pittsburgh’s offense hasn’t been much better, either, putting up a total of just 5 runs over its last 2 games.

While the market is expecting Steele to bounce back (his O/U for ER is set at 1.5), he has struggled against Pittsburgh, and that’s cause for concern.

LEAN UNDER 7.5 (-105).

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (71-81) and Chicago Cubs (79-73) play the finale of a 3-game set at Wrigley Field Thursday. First pitch is at 7:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM 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 10-2

The first 2 games of the series have been slugfests with the Cubs winning 14-1 Tuesday and Pittsburgh winning 13-7 Wednesday. The Pirates are on the verge of elimination. 8 games out of an NL Wild Card spot with 10 to go, but they have been playing well of late. They’re 12-8 and 17-13 over the last 20 and 30 games, respectively.

The Cubs have taken a deep dive of late with just 3 wins in their last 10 games. They’re clinging to the final NL Wild Card spot with 3 teams within 3 games of them. They are 42-35 at home and 29-19 within the division this year.

Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Johan Oviedo vs. RHP Kyle Hendricks

Oviedo (8-14, 4.27 ERA) makes his 31st start. He has a 1.36 WHIP, 4.1 BB/9 and 7.9 K/9 through 166 2/3 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 5 BB, 7 K Friday against New York Yankees
Last 5 starts vs. Cubs: 1-3, 3.29 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 28 K in 27 1/3 IP

Hendricks (6-7, 3.77 ERA) makes his 23rd start. He has a 1.17 WHIP, 1.6 BB/9 and 6.1 K/9 through 126 2/3 IP.

Last start: No-decision, 5 1/3 IP, 3 ER, 7 H, 1 BB, 3 K Saturday against Arizona Diamondbacks
Last 5 starts vs, Pirates: 2-2, 3.58 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 17 K in 27 2/3 IP

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Pirates at Cubs odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated 8:17 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Cubs -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-145) | Cubs -1.5 (+120)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 6, Cubs 4

Moneyline

Hendricks has been a lot worse at home this season as his stuff is diminishing as he ages. He’s 3-4 with a 4.41 ERA and 1.30 WHIP in 12 home starts and 3-3 with a 3.08 ERA and 1.03 WHIP in 10 road starts. I’m also a big fan of Oviedo. He has electric stuff if he can just keep the walks to a minimum, and he has walked just 1 in his last 3 starts against the Cubs.

I’ll take the PIRATES (+135).

Run line/Against the spread

I don’t like the run line in any scenario here as 8 of the last 10 meetings have been decided by 2 or more runs. If you like the Pirates to cover, just stick with the value on the ML.

PASS.

Over/Under

It’s a little surprising to see this line under 9 after these teams have combined for 35 runs scored in the first 2 games. These teams have actually slaughtered this number in 4 straight meetings. Their numbers trend toward the Under over the last 10, but Oviedo has pitched to 3 straight Overs and Hendricks has cashed the over in 2 of his last 3 turns.

I’ll take the OVER 8.5 (-110).

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Pittsburgh Pirates (70-81) and Chicago Cubs (79-72) play the 2nd game of a 3-game set Wednesday at Wrigley Field. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM 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 10-1

The Pirates lost 14-1 as +144 underdogs as the Over (9) cashed in the series opener Tuesday. Pittsburgh has lost 3 of its last 4 games.

Rookie DH Alexander Canario hit a grand slam for his 1st HR in the majors as part of an 8-run 8th inning for Chicago. The Cubs ended a 5-game losing skid and have a half-game lead over the Miami Marlins for the final NL Wild Card spot.

Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Mitch Keller vs. LHP Justin Steele

Keller (12-9, 4.04 ERA) makes his 31st start. He has a 1.24 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 9.8 K/9 in 182 2/3 innings.

Last start: Win, 8 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 2-0 home victory vs. Washington Nationals Thursday
2023 road stats: 5-6, 5.15 ERA (92 2/3 IP, 53 ER) in 16 starts
2023 vs. Cubs: Win, 8 IP, 0 ER, 4 H, 1 BB, 6 K in 1 start, a 2-1 home victory Aug. 25
Career vs. Cubs: 3-4, 4.24 ERA (46 2/3 IP, 22 ER) in 9 starts and 1 relief appearance

Steele (16-4, 2.73 ERA) makes his 29th start. He has a 1.14 WHIP, 1.9 BB/9 and 8.9 K/9 in 165 innings.

Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 6 ER, 7 H, 2 BB, 5 K in 6-4 loss at Arizona Diamondbacks Friday
2023 home stats: 12-2, 2.18 ERA (99 IP, 24 ER) in 17 starts
2023 vs. Pirates: No-decision, 6 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 6 H, 2 BB, 6 K in 1 start, a 5-4 road win in 10 innings Aug. 24
Career vs. Pirates: 1-1, 3.80 ERA (23 2/3 IP, 10 ER) in 4 starts and 1 relief appearance

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Pirates 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 1:19 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Cubs -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-140) | Cubs -1.5 (+115)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 7, Pirates 2

Moneyline

The Cubs (-175) should improve to 11-1 vs. the Pirates this season, but there’s no need to pay the higher price on the moneyline when Chicago should win by multiple runs.

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

Run line/Against the spread

The Cubs are a respectable 25-26 on the run line this season as home favorites, usually at plus odds.

Steele should bounce back after his 2nd-worst start of the season last time out. He has not allowed a single run in his 2 outings this year when coming off a start with 5 or more ER.

Add in Chicago’s No. 4-ranked home offense, and this should create the perfect storm for the Pirates to lose by multiple runs.

BET CUBS -1.5 (+115).

Over/Under

The Over is 25-19-3 (56.8%) this season when the Cubs play in-division and 26-23-2 (53.1%) when they’re home favorites.

The Over has also hit in 5 of the last 6 meetings between these teams and should cash Wednesday as Chicago continues to bully Pittsburgh this season.

BET OVER 7.5 (-115).

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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 (70-80) open a 3-game series against the Chicago Cubs (78-72) on Tuesday at Wrigley Field. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM 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 9-1

The Pirates defeated the New York Yankees 3-2 Sunday to snap a 2-game losing streak. Pittsburgh is 5-5 in its last 10 games and is 8 games back of Chicago for the final NL Wild Card spot with 12 games remaining.

The Cubs lost to the Arizona Diamondbacks 6-2 on Sunday, handing them their 5th consecutive loss. Chicago is currently tied with the Cincinnati Reds for the final NL Wild Card spot and is 6 games back of the NL Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers in the division.

Pirates at Cubs projected starters

TBD vs. RHP Javier Assad

The Pirates starting pitcher is unannounced at the time of publication.

Assad (3-3, 3.10 ERA) makes his 10th start. He has a 1.25 WHIP, 3.6 BB/9 and 6.7 K/9 through 95 2/3 IP.

Last start: No decision, 3 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 4 BB, 4 K in 6-4 road loss vs. Colorado Rockies last Tuesday
2023 home stats: 0-3, 3.71 ERA (51 IP, 21 ER) in 4 starts and 12 relief appearances
Career vs. Pirates: 1-0, 3.27 ERA (11 IP, 4 ER) in 2 starts

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Pirates 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 12:02 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates +125 (bet $100 to win $125) | Cubs -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-160) | Cubs -1.5 (+135)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 6, Pirates 4

Moneyline

Even with Chicago struggling recently, I’ll back the CUBS (-150) at home against the Pirates. The Cubs have won 9 of the first 10 meetings against their division rivals this season.

Run line/Against the spread

CUBS -1.5 (+135) has fantastic value as it has yet to be announced who will start for the Pirates on the mound. The Cubs have won by at least 2 runs in 8 of their 9 wins against the Pirates this season.

Chicago is also 41-34 at home compared to Pittsburgh producing a 32-40 record on the road this season.

Over/Under

With Assad making another start for the Cubs, and the Pirates likely rolling out a mediocre pitcher on Tuesday, OVER 9 (-105) is the play in this contest. The Over is 7-3 in the first 10 meetings between these teams this season.

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

The Chicago Cubs (30-37) welcome the Pittsburgh Pirates (34-32) to Wrigley Field Thursday. First pitch in the finale of the 3-game series is set for 8:05 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM 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 2-0

Chicago has won 4 of its last 5 games, rallying following a 4-game losing streak. The Cubs are just 13-21 at home, but have won 4 of its last 5 home games.

The Pirates lost 10-6 Wednesday and 11-3 on Tuesday. They still sit atop the NL Central and are 16-16 on the road. Pittsburgh has lost 5 of its last 7.

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Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Johan Oviedo vs. RHP Marcus Stroman

Oviedo (3-5, 4.16 ERA) makes his 14th start. He has a 1.43 WHIP, 4.3 BB/9 and 7.9 K/9 in 71 1/3 innings.

Last start: 6 1/3 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 2BB, 5 K in loss to New York Mets on Saturday
Hasn’t allowed more than 3 ER in a game in 6 starts since May 6
Pirates are 6-7 with him on the mound

Stroman (7-4, 2.42 ERA) makes his 15th start. He has a 1.04 WHIP, 3.3 BB/9 and 7.7 K/9 in 85 2/3 innings.

Has allowed just 2 ER in his last 3 starts covering 21 2/3 innings
Cubs are 8-6 in games he has pitched and have won his last 5 starts

Pirates 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 11:15 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Cubs -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-150) | Cubs -1.5 (+135)
Over/Under (O/U): 7 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Pirates 4, Cubs 2

Moneyline

BET PIRATES (+140).

The Cubs haven’t been great at home, and while that has flipped lately, they are still just 11-11 at a home favorite. The Pirates are 13-15 as a road underdog. Chicago is also just 12-17 following a win, so winning streaks aren’t necessarily something they’ve had much of this season.

Considering those trends, take PIRATES (+140).

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

Both plays aren’t great here. The Cubs on the run line does pose some value after demolishing the Pirates in 2 straight games, but Oviedo has pitched well late, making that not terrific value either.

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Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 7 (-120).

The Cubs have gone Under in 11 of their last 15 games, and both teams have strong pitchers on the mound which should certainly help.

The Pirates have gone Under in 2 of their last 4 games. Oviedo has been pitching well over his last few starts too. Combine both pitchers performing well and the trends for Chicago, back the UNDER 7 (-120).

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

The Pittsburgh Pirates (34-31) continue their 3-game series with the Chicago Cubs (29-37) Wednesday. First pitch from Wrigley Field is at 8:05 ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Chicago leads 1-0

The Cubs took Tuesday’s opener 11-3 despite the Pirates scoring first on CF Jack Suwinski’s 1st-inning solo homer. Chicago LF Ian Happ responded with a 3-run blast in the bottom of the 1st, and after Suwinski’s 2nd homer of the game tied it at 3-3 in the 6th, the Cubs regained the lead on 1B Matt Mervis’ RBI single in the bottom of the 6th. Chicago increased the lead behind a 4-run 7th (bases-loaded hit by pitch, SS Dansby Swanson RBI single and 2-run single by PH Yan Gomes) and wrapped up the victory with a 3-run, 8th-inning homer by LF Christopher Morel — he replaced Happ in the top of the inning.

It was the Cubs’ 3rd victory in their last 4 games. Tuesday marked their return home after a 4-6 road trip through San Diego, Anaheim and San Francisco.

Pittsburgh, which leads the NL Central by 1 game over the Milwaukee Brewers, had just taken 2 of 3 at home from the New York Mets, winning Friday and Sunday. Tuesday was the Bucs’ 1st game of a 6-game trip, which will take them to Milwaukee after these 3 at Wrigley.

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Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP Osvaldo Bido vs. LHP Drew Smyly

Bido will make his major-league debut. He was 3-4 with a 4.55 ERA (55 1/3 IP, 28 ER), 1.30 WHIP, 4.2 BB/9 and 9.1 K/9 in 12 appearances (10 starts) at Triple-A Indianapolis.

Last start: Loss, 4 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 4 H, 5 B, 3 K in 15-7 rout by the visiting Triple-A Omaha Storm Chasers
Last 4 starts: 1-1, 6.75 ERA (20 IP, 15 ER), 19 H, 11 BB, 15 K
Allows .248 batting average when bases are empty and a .196 when runners are aboard

Smyly (5-4, 3.27 ERA) makes his 14th start. He has a 1.16 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 7.7 K/9 in 71 2/3 innings.

Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 4 K in a 3-1 loss at Los Angeles Angels Thursday
Home splits: 2-1, 3.52 ERA (30 2/3 IP, 12 ER), 0.98 WHIP, 9.7 K/9
.208 opponent batting average against righties; .318 vs. lefties

Pirates 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 1:29 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Pirates +130 (bet $100 to win $130) | Cubs -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Pirates +1.5 (-155) | Cubs -1.5 (+125)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: +100 | U: -120)

Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 8, Pirates 3

Moneyline

At Wrigley, the Cubs match up well against good teams. They’ve won 10 of their last 11 home games against teams with a winning record (per Covers.com), but the -155 price is a bit too juicy for a team below .500.

AVOID.

Run line/Against the spread

With the Pirates pitcher making his MLB debut, I see a great opportunity for the Cubs. Bido averaged over 4 walks per 9 innings in the minors. The Cubs are 3rd in MLB in walks.

Bido will face a lot of pressure in his debut. LEAN CUBS -1.5 (+125).

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Over/Under

BET OVER 9 (+100).

There are several trends that back up this wager.

Against the NL Central, the Cubs have gone Over in 6 straight games.

The Over is 14-3-2 in the Pirates’ last 19 road games vs. left-handed starters.

The Over is 4-1 in the Pirates’ last 5 road games and 8-3 in the Pirates’ last 11 games following a loss.

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Pittsburgh Pirates at Chicago Cubs odds, picks and predictions

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

The Pittsburgh Pirates (40-56) pay a visit to Wrigley Field to open a 2-game set against the Chicago Cubs (38-57) Monday. The series lid-lifter is slated to get underway at 8:05 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Pirates vs. Cubs odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Pittsburgh leads 8-5. The Pirates have not won a season series against the Cubs since 2014.

The Pirates opened the second half by dropping 2-of-3 games to the Miami Marlins. In games bracketing the All-Star break, the Bucs are 2-6 over their last 8 contests. Pittsburgh bats have produced all of a .570 OPS during that stretch.

The Cubs return to Wrigley after a 3-game sweep of the Philadelphia Phillies. A club that struggled offensively heading into the break (.564 OPS July 6-17) scored 25 runs in 3 games at Philadelphia.

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Pirates at Cubs projected starters

RHP J.T. Brubaker vs. RHP Adrian Sampson

Brubaker (2-8, 4.02 ERA) is lined up for his 19th start of the season. He has a 1.42 WHIP, 3.8 BB/9 and 9.3 K/9 through 94 IP.

Making his first start of the second half. Tossed 7-scoreless frames in his last turn before the All-Star break at the Miami Marlins July 13.
Owns a 3.00 ERA over his last 30 IP spanning 5 starts.
Has logged 23 IP against Chicago over the last 2 seasons with a 3.52 ERA and 28 K.

Sampson (0-1, 3.34 ERA) has logged a 1.21 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 6.4 K/9 through 32 1/3 IP across 5 starts and 2 bullpen appearances.

Has gone between 5-5 2/3 IP in each of his 5 starts.
Has allowed hard contact on just 26% of balls in play.

Pirates at Cubs odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8 a.m. ET.

Money line: Pirates +122 (bet $100 to win $122) | Cubs -150 (bet $150 to win $100)
Run line (RL): Pirates +1.5 (-170) | Cubs -1.5 (+135)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -125 | U: +100)

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Pirates at Cubs picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 5, Pirates 3

Money line

Chicago has been unduly hurt by a 12-18 record in 1-run games. The Cubs are a team to watch — at least from a betting standpoint — early in the 2nd half.

Brubaker has logged some small-sample-size troubles at Wrigley Field.

TAKE CHICAGO (-150).

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Run line/Against the spread

More aggressive bettors may want to take a crack at getting the home 9 by margin. CUBS -1.5 (+135) is a borderline play and it’s perhaps worth a line watch for an even better price.

Over/Under

The total and prices looked to be dialed in here, without good leverage on either side. AVOID.

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