The Chicago Cubs are set to visit the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA. This night game on September 8, 2025, will be broadcasted on MARQ. Currently, the Cubs hold a record of 81-62, ranking second in the NL Central, while the Braves stand at 64-79, placing fourth in the NL East.
Both teams are coming off two-game losing streaks. The Cubs have split their last ten games 5-5, whereas the Braves have won only three of their last ten. With clear skies and a light breeze expected, fans can look forward to favorable baseball conditions.
In their recent meetings, the Cubs and Braves have exchanged wins, with the Cubs securing a 4-3 victory and the Braves winning 5-1 in their previous encounters. The sportsbook consensus gives the Cubs a slight edge with a moneyline of -130, compared to the Braves at +110. The total set for the game is 8.5, indicating expectations of a reasonably balanced scoring affair.
Braves vs Cubs At a Glance
- Game Location: Truist Park in Atlanta, GA
- Weather Conditions: Clear sky with a warm day and light breeze crosswind
- TV Broadcast: Available on MARQ
- Chicago Cubs Record: 81-62, ranked 2nd in NL Central
- Atlanta Braves Record: 64-79, ranked 4th in NL East
- Game Odds: Cubs favored with a moneyline of -130; Braves at +110
Braves Prepare for Battle Against Cubs with a Reinvigorated Lineup
Chicago Cubs: A Closer Look
The Chicago Cubs are set to bring their competitive edge to Truist Park, aiming to exploit the Braves’ current vulnerabilities. With Shota Imanaga on the mound, the Cubs rely on his impressive ERA of 3.15 to keep the Braves’ lineup at bay. Imanaga’s ability to control games, as demonstrated by his WHIP of 0.94, makes him a formidable opponent.
In their recent games, the Cubs have shown an ability to adapt and overcome challenges, a trait they hope to leverage against the Braves. With a season record that places them well within the competitive spectrum, they are eager to secure a win and maintain their position. The Cubs’ lineup will need to capitalize on any defensive lapses from the Braves to succeed.
Key Players to Watch
Chicago’s offensive lineup features several players who can change the game’s outcome with a single swing. Watch out for Ian Happ, whose consistency at the plate has been vital for the Cubs. His ability to deliver in crucial moments makes him a key player to watch against the Braves.
Additionally, Cody Bellinger provides power and reliability, adding depth to the Cubs’ lineup. His presence in the lineup is a constant threat to opposing pitchers, and his performance could significantly impact the game’s result. Bellinger’s ability to hit the long ball will be crucial in exploiting any mistakes by Braves’ pitching.
Pitching Dynamics
Shota Imanaga’s pitching has been a backbone for the Cubs, with his 9-6 win-loss record demonstrating his effectiveness. His control on the mound, evidenced by his low WHIP, allows him to manage high-pressure situations effectively. This skill will be crucial in handling the Braves’ top hitters like Matt Olson and Ronald Acuña Jr.
The Cubs’ bullpen has shown resilience throughout the season, offering support when needed. They will need to be on top form to suppress any late-game rallies from the Braves. The ability of their relievers to maintain leads and close out games will be pivotal in this matchup.
Team Betting Trends
- SU Last 3 Games: 1-2 (33.3%)
- Runline Last 5: 3-2 (60.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 4-6 (40.0%)
- SU in Away Games: 30-44 (40.5%)
- Runline as Underdog: 25-23 (52.1%)
- O/U Totals ≥ 9: 23-29 (44.2%)
Chicago Cubs Aim to Bounce Back Against the Braves
Team Overview
The Cubs are currently holding a solid position in the league with an overall record of 81-62, which puts them in the first wild-card spot. Despite recent struggles, they maintain one of the best records in the majors, but the uncertainty surrounding key injuries raises questions about their postseason readiness.
Facing the Braves away at Truist Park, the Cubs are looking to capitalize on the Braves’ current pitching struggles, particularly against Bryce Elder who holds a 5.54 ERA. This three-game series offers a crucial opportunity for the Cubs to regain momentum and further solidify their playoff aspirations.
Key Players to Watch
Seiya Suzuki has been a standout performer for the Cubs, hitting 27 home runs and driving in 90 runs this season. His ability to drive in runs and get on base will be critical for the Cubs as they aim to put pressure on the Braves’ pitching staff.
Nico Hoerner is another player to keep an eye on with a team-leading batting average of .291. His consistency at the plate and ability to get on base will be essential for setting the table for the middle of the Cubs’ lineup.
Injury Concerns
The Cubs are currently dealing with several key injuries that could impact their performance. Outfielder Kyle Tucker is listed as day-to-day with left calf tightness and is uncertain to take the field against the Braves.
Daniel Palencia’s shoulder injury has created uncertainty in the bullpen, requiring the Cubs to potentially explore a closer-by-committee approach. These injuries present challenges for manager Craig Counsell as he looks to adjust the lineup and bullpen strategy.
Pitching Matchup
Shota Imanaga is scheduled to start for the Cubs against the Braves’ Bryce Elder. Imanaga boasts a 3.15 ERA and a 0.94 WHIP, indicating strong control and effectiveness on the mound.
In contrast, Bryce Elder has struggled this season with a 5.54 ERA, which the Cubs hope to exploit. A strong outing from Imanaga could give the Cubs the edge they need to secure a win in the series opener.
Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 81-62 (56.6%)
- SU in Away Games: 37-34 (52.1%)
- SU After a Loss: 42-19 (68.9%)
- Runline All Games: 64-79 (44.8%)
- O/U All Games: 67-76 (46.9%)
These trends suggest that the Cubs have a solid chance of bouncing back after a loss, which could be an advantage as they head into the game against the Braves.
Braves vs Cubs Prediction: Braves +110
The Atlanta Braves enter the matchup against the Chicago Cubs as slight underdogs with a moneyline of +110. Despite their struggles this season, the Braves have shown flashes of potential, particularly in recent head-to-head matchups where they outscored the Cubs. Additionally, the Braves have an opportunity to capitalize on home-field advantage at Truist Park.
The Cubs have been consistent this season, yet recent injuries to key players like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Daniel Palencia could impact their performance. With Shota Imanaga on the mound, who has a respectable ERA of 3.15, the Cubs might find it challenging to maintain their offensive momentum. The Cubs’ bullpen, having struggled post-All-Star break, may also present vulnerabilities that the Braves can exploit.
For the Braves, Bryce Elder will be looking to improve on his season numbers, which have been subpar with an ERA of 5.54. However, the Braves have historically performed better after a loss, and Elder’s familiarity with the Cubs lineup could work in Atlanta’s favor. The potential return to form for key Braves players could be pivotal in securing a win.
Considering these factors, along with the Braves’ recent performance trend and home advantage, Atlanta presents a valuable pick with the odds provided. A projected final score of Braves 5, Cubs 3 supports this prediction.
- Braves vs Cubs Prediction: Braves +110
- Braves vs Cubs Score: Braves 5 – Cubs 3
