The Chicago Cubs are set to face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates for their final game of the series on Thursday. The Cubs took the opener in a commanding 9-0 victory on Tuesday, but the Pirates rallied to win 4-3 on Wednesday. Currently leading the National League Central, the Cubs hold a record of 18-13, while the Pirates, sitting fifth in the division, improved to 12-19 with this recent win.
First pitch at PNC Park in Pittsburgh is scheduled for 12:35 p.m. ET. Historically, the Cubs have performed well against the Pirates, winning five of the last seven encounters. In the betting markets, Pittsburgh is favored at -148 (bet $148 to win $100) as per the latest odds from DraftKings Sportsbook. The total number of runs projected by Vegas for this matchup is set at 7.5. To get in-depth analysis and bets for this game, check SportsLine’s picks.
The SportsLine Projection Model has simulated every MLB game 10,000 times, entering the sixth week of the 2025 season with a 17-11 record on top-rated MLB bets (+276). For potential great returns, follow insights from the model through various betting platforms and apps.
Now, this predictive model is focused on the Cubs vs. Pirates game, ensuring its bets and predictions are locked in. Several odds and betting lines to consider include:
- Money Line: Cubs +124, Pirates -148 at DraftKings Sportsbook
- Over-Under: 7.5 runs
- Run Line: Pirates -1.5 (+150)
- Recent Performance: The under is 3-1-1 in the Cubs’ last five games, while it is 4-2-1 in the Pirates’ past seven contests.
- For expert picks, visit SportsLine.
Why the Pirates Can Cover
Pittsburgh is expected to pitch ace right-hander Paul Skenes, boasting a record of 3-2 and an impressive 2.39 ERA. In his six starts this season, he has pitched 37.2 innings with a tally of 26 hits, 12 runs (10 earned), and four walks against 39 strikeouts. On Friday, he achieved a win against the Los Angeles Dodgers in a 3-0 game, striking out nine batters across 6.1 innings and conceding only five hits.
Shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa is among the team’s standout players this season, currently batting .280 through 30 games with three doubles, one triple, and seven RBIs, alongside six stolen bases. He performed well against the Cubs, accumulating 10 hits, including a double and five RBIs over 12 career games.
Why the Cubs Can Cover
The Cubs will respond with righty Colin Rea, who has a current record of 1-0 and a stellar 0.96 ERA. A veteran pitcher recently from the Milwaukee Brewers, he finished last season at 12-6 with a 4.29 ERA. In his previous game, he was dominant against the Philadelphia Phillies, securing a victory with five innings pitched, just three hits allowed, and seven strikeouts.
Leading the offense is right fielder Kyle Tucker, who has maintained a .279 average throughout 31 games and contributed significantly with eight doubles, two triples, seven home runs, and 27 RBIs. His recent performance against the Dodgers showcased his capability, where he went 3-for-4 with a home run, facilitating the Cubs’ victory.
How to Make Cubs vs. Pirates Picks
The model leans toward betting Over, projecting 9.4 combined runs for the game, and suggests that one side of the money line holds substantial value. To discover who wins this matchup and which side offers the most potential profit, refer to SportsLine.
