The Pittsburgh Pirates travel to Wrigley Field on Saturday, August 16, 2025, for a 2:20 PM ET showdown with the Chicago Cubs in a key National League matchup. With the Cubs pushing for playoff positioning and the Pirates looking to spoil the party, expect an intense afternoon on the North Side. This game will be broadcast on FS1.
For more expert insight and analysis on matchups like this one, check out our complete MLB Picks section.
Team Analysis
Pittsburgh Pirates
Pittsburgh enters this contest trying to claw their way out of a recent slump, having dropped four of their last six games. The offense has been inconsistent, ranking in the bottom third of MLB in OPS over the past month. Bryan Reynolds remains the heart of the lineup, but he needs more consistent help from Ke’Bryan Hayes and Oneil Cruz. Defensively, Pittsburgh has shown flashes of excellence but has been prone to costly errors that extend innings.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs are riding momentum after winning six of their last eight games, including a statement series win over a division rival. Cody Bellinger has been on fire at the plate, while Seiya Suzuki continues to get on base at a high clip. Chicago’s bullpen has been reliable late in games, which could play a critical role if this matchup stays close through the first five innings.
Recent Form
- Pirates: 2-4 in their last 6, team ERA over that stretch at 4.88
- Cubs: 6-2 in their last 8, averaging 5.1 runs per game in that span
Pitching Matchup
| Team | Pitcher | Hand | W-L | ERA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pirates | Mike Burrows | RHP | 2-3 | 4.21 |
| Cubs | Shota Imanaga | LHP | 11-4 | 3.08 |
Mike Burrows (PIT) – Burrows mixes a mid-90s fastball with a sharp curveball, but command issues have plagued him in recent starts. He’ll need to work ahead in the count against a patient Cubs lineup.
Shota Imanaga (CHC) – Imanaga has been outstanding in 2025, limiting hard contact and striking out hitters at an elite rate. His pinpoint control and ability to change speeds make him a tough matchup for right-handed hitters.
Key Players to Watch
- PIT: Bryan Reynolds – The Pirates’ best bat has to produce if Pittsburgh hopes to keep pace.
- PIT: Oneil Cruz – His power-speed combo is a game-changer when he’s locked in.
- CHC: Cody Bellinger – Swinging one of the hottest bats in the league over the last 10 games.
- CHC: Shota Imanaga – Could dominate if he keeps his pitch count manageable early.
Prediction
The Cubs have the momentum, the stronger offense, and the better starting pitcher in this matchup. While Pittsburgh’s young core has potential, they’ve struggled against high-level lefties like Imanaga. Look for Chicago to get an early lead and let their bullpen slam the door.
Final Score Prediction: Cubs 6, Pirates 3
Best Bets
- Cubs -1.5 Run Line – Imanaga’s consistency at home gives Chicago a strong edge.
- Over 9.5 Runs – Both offenses could take advantage of late-inning bullpen arms.
- Cody Bellinger to Record 2+ Hits – He’s been locked in at the plate and matches up well here.
