Free MLB Pick: Cubs vs. Pirates Odds
Looking for Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Free MLB predictions? MLB betting sees the Cubs taking on the Pirates on 9/15 at PNC Park, in Pittsburgh. Cappers Picks provides complimentary expert handicapping picks on all MLB baseball matchups all season long so stay tuned for more FREE daily MLB predictions like this Cubs Pirates free pick.
2025 MLB Handicapping – Chicago Cubs vs Pittsburgh Pirates
(85-64) Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (65-85)
Date: Sep 15, 2025
Time: 6:40 PM ET
Venue: PNC Park in Pittsburgh, PA
Projected Starting Pitchers: Jameson Taillon vs. Braxton Ashcraft
MLB Moneyline Odds: Cubs -134 | Pirates +114 (Bet Now!)
Today’s MLB Run Line Betting Odds: Cubs -1.5 | Pirates +1.5
MLB Baseball Gambling Total: O/U: 8
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Cubs vs. Pirates Gameday
As the Chicago Cubs visit the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park, the Cubs aim to build on their recent win against the Tampa Bay Rays. With a solid record of 85-64, the Cubs hold the second spot in the NL Central, trailing the division leader by five games. Meanwhile, the Pirates, ranked fifth in the same division, possess a record of 65-85 and have struggled in their recent outings.
The Cubs, managed by Craig Counsell, are looking to continue their momentum as they have gone 5-5 in their last ten games. Their recent success has been aided by standout performances from players like Ian Happ and Nico Hoerner. As they play on the road, the Cubs hold a road record of 39-35, showcasing their capability to perform away from home.
On the other hand, the Pirates have faced difficulties, going 2-8 in their last ten games, including a close loss to the Washington Nationals. Under the guidance of manager Don Kelly, the Pirates will hope to leverage their home advantage at PNC Park, where they hold a respectable 42-33 record. Despite their struggles, players like Jared Triolo have shown moments of effectiveness, providing hope for an improved performance.
Historically, the Cubs have had the upper hand in recent head-to-head encounters, winning seven of the last ten games against the Pirates. The Cubs have consistently outscored the Pirates, maintaining a solid edge in their matchups. With the weather forecast predicting scattered clouds and a light breeze, both teams will aim to capitalize on favorable conditions to secure a win in this matchup.
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Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Odds & Last 5
Looking at the odds, the Cubs are slightly favored with a moneyline of -132, while the Pirates stand at +113. With a runline of -1.5 (+127) for the Cubs and +1.5 (-151) for the Pirates, the spread suggests a competitive game. The total over/under is set at 8.0, indicating expectations for a moderate scoring affair.
In recent games, the Cubs have shown a mixed performance with a 5-5 record in their last ten outings. Their last game resulted in a narrow 4-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, showcasing their ability to win close contests. Standout performances from players like Ian Happ have been instrumental in these efforts.
The Pirates, however, have struggled with a 2-8 record in their last ten games, including a 4-3 loss to the Washington Nationals. Despite these struggles, Jared Triolo’s performance has been a bright spot for the team. As they return to PNC Park, the Pirates hope to turn their fortunes around at home, where they have shown better results.
Pirates Stats
First, let’s examine the Pittsburgh Pirates’ hitting performance. Their batting average sits at .231, placing them 17th in the league, while their on-base percentage mirrors that rank at .305. However, their slugging percentage of .349 ranks lower at 24th, reflecting challenges in power hitting.
Turning to individual performances, Andrew McCutchen stands out with a .241 batting average and 13 home runs, leading the team in both categories. Spencer Horwitz follows closely with a .260 average and 9 home runs, adding depth to their lineup. Meanwhile, Jared Triolo’s contributions include a .230 average, highlighting the need for more consistency from other hitters.
On the pitching front, the Pirates maintain a 3.87 ERA, which ranks 10th in the league, showing solid overall pitching. Their ability to limit opponents’ batting average to .236 is a strength, placing them 6th in that category. However, they have surrendered 140 home runs, the third-highest in the league, indicating room for improvement.
In recent games, the Pirates have experienced mixed results, with a notable 5-1 win against the Nationals showcasing their potential. Yet, they also suffered a 4-3 loss, illustrating the inconsistency that has marked their season. As they move forward, finding a balance between offense and defense remains key to improving their standing.
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Cubs Stats
Starting with the hitting performance, the Chicago Cubs have shown consistency throughout the 2025 season. Their batting average stands at .249, ranking 8th in the league. Additionally, their on-base percentage is .320, also placing them 8th, while their slugging percentage is .427, ranking 6th.
Key players have been instrumental in maintaining this performance. Seiya Suzuki leads with 27 home runs and 91 RBIs, ranking 1st on the team. Meanwhile, Nico Hoerner holds a .299 batting average, showcasing his ability to get on base effectively.
On the pitching side, the Cubs’ team ERA is 3.87, placing them 11th in the league. Their pitching staff has given up 184 home runs, which is a concern as it ranks 19th. However, they have managed 57 quality starts, ranking 8th, indicating some stability in their starting rotation.
Recently, the Cubs have been on a positive streak, winning four of their last five games. Their latest victory was a 4-3 win over the Tampa Bay Rays, where Shota Imanaga pitched 5 innings with 9 strikeouts. This momentum could play a significant role as they continue their season.
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Cubs vs. Pirates Pitching Matchup
Jameson Taillon takes the mound for the Chicago Cubs with a 4.15 ERA and a WHIP of 1.11. His win-loss record stands at 9-6, which indicates a solid performance throughout the season. Notably, Taillon has been consistent in recent games, maintaining a steady presence on the mound.
In addition, Taillon’s ability to keep runners off base is evident in his WHIP of 1.11. This statistic highlights his control and effectiveness in limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities. As the season progresses, his experience could play a key role in the Cubs’ pitching strategy.
On the other hand, Braxton Ashcraft will start for the Pittsburgh Pirates with an impressive 2.47 ERA and a WHIP of 1.20. His win-loss record of 4-2 reflects his ability to secure victories for his team. Furthermore, Ashcraft’s recent performances suggest he is in good form, contributing to the Pirates’ pitching depth.
Despite being relatively new to the major leagues, Ashcraft’s ERA of 2.47 showcases his potential on the mound. His control, reflected in his WHIP, indicates he can manage pressure situations effectively. As the game unfolds, Ashcraft’s performance will be crucial for the Pirates’ chances.
Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Betting Trends
- The Pirates have lost four of their last five games straight-up.
- The Pirates’ games have gone under the total in three of their last five outings.
- The Cubs have won four of their last five games straight-up.
- Also, the Cubs’ games have gone over the total in three of their last five outings.
- The Pirates have covered the run line in only one of their last five games.
- Additionally, the Cubs have covered the run line in three of their last five games.
Cubs vs Pirates Prediction: Under 8
The Cubs come in red-hot, winning four of their last five contests. Yet despite their success, four of the last five meetings with the Pirates have cashed the under, pointing to a consistent low-scoring trend.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh has dropped four of their last five games, and three of those finished below the number as well.
When both teams show overlapping under trends, bettors should take notice.
Additionally, the line suggests this could be a tightly contested matchup, and close games often lean to the lower side of totals. With Chicago’s pitching holding up and the Pirates’ offense sputtering, the conditions favor a defensive battle.
Therefore, the recommendation is to play the under 8.5. The combination of recent trends and head-to-head history makes this total the sharper side of the market.
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MLB Betting Tweet Of The Day
Today, we honor the life and legacy of the great Roberto Clemente. pic.twitter.com/iK3GpMGxyG
— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) September 15, 2025
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