Game Time: 2:20 PM ET
Location: Wrigley Field – Chicago, IL
TV: MLBN
Pitching Matchup: Pirates: TBD vs Cubs: Colin Rea (10-8, 4.07 ERA)
The Pittsburgh Pirates open a weekend series against the Chicago Cubs in an early afternoon showdown at Wrigley Field. The Cubs are fighting to stay in the NL Central race, while the Pirates are aiming to finish the season strong and build momentum for 2026.
Pitching Matchup
| Team | Pitcher | Record | ERA | WHIP | K/BB | Last 3 Starts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pirates | TBD | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Cubs | Colin Rea | 10-8 | 4.07 | 1.28 | 111/42 | 19.0 IP, 7 ER, 14 K |
Note: Pittsburgh has yet to announce a starter. This will impact betting lines as the game approaches.
Recent Form
Pittsburgh Pirates – The Pirates are 3-7 in their last 10 games, struggling to find offensive consistency. Bryan Reynolds and Ke’Bryan Hayes have been bright spots, but run production has been streaky. On the road, Pittsburgh has lost 4 of their last 5, with pitching depth being a key issue.
Chicago Cubs – The Cubs are 6-4 in their last 10 and have taken 4 of their last 5 at Wrigley Field. Colin Rea has been reliable in August, keeping the ball in the yard and limiting walks. Chicago’s offense has been fueled by Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ, with Cody Bellinger adding timely hits.
Team Analysis
Pittsburgh Pirates
Offense: The Pirates rank in the bottom third of MLB in runs scored, relying on extra-base hits rather than consistent rallies.
Pitching: The bullpen is a strength, with David Bednar and Aroldis Chapman providing late-inning stability. However, the uncertainty around the starting spot leaves the first five innings vulnerable.
Chicago Cubs
Offense: Balanced attack with multiple players hovering around .270 or better. Wrigley Field day games often amplify their power output.
Pitching: Colin Rea has been efficient, and Chicago’s bullpen has been sharp over the past week, posting a combined ERA under 3.00.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Cubs patience vs Pirates starter – If the Pirates go with a spot starter, Chicago’s disciplined approach could wear them down early.
- Bryan Reynolds vs Colin Rea – Reynolds’ ability to handle right-handed pitching could be a difference-maker.
- Wind factor – August day games at Wrigley can turn fly balls into homers.
Betting Odds (via ESPN BET)
- Line: Cubs -135
- Over/Under: 9.0
Prediction & Best Bets
Prediction: Cubs 6, Pirates 3
Reasoning:
The Cubs have a clear advantage on the mound with Rea, and their offense has been hot at home. The Pirates’ lack of a confirmed starter makes it tough to see them holding Chicago’s lineup down for nine innings. Expect the Cubs to jump ahead early and let the bullpen seal it.
Best Bets:
- Cubs Moneyline (-135)
- Over 9.0 Runs if wind is blowing out
- Colin Rea Over 4.5 Strikeouts
