The Chicago Cubs, holding a strong record of 86-64, are on a two-game winning streak and currently rank second in the NL Central. Their recent performance has been solid, winning six of their last ten games. With Craig Counsell at the helm, the Cubs are looking to build on their momentum at PNC Park against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Pirates are struggling with a record of 65-86 and are in fifth place in the division. They have lost two consecutive games and only managed one win in their last ten outings. Under the management of Don Kelly, the Pirates aim to turn their fortunes around on their home turf.
The game is set for Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 6:40 PM, with the weather in Pittsburgh expected to be warm with a light breeze and broken clouds. Fans can catch the action live on SN PT. As the Cubs and Pirates meet again, both teams will be eager to put on a competitive show under the evening lights at PNC Park.
Pirates vs Cubs At a Glance
- Current Records: The Chicago Cubs have a record of 86-64, while the Pittsburgh Pirates stand at 65-86.
- Stadium Location: The game will take place at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, PA.
- Weather Forecast: Expect a warm day with a light breeze under ‘Broken Clouds’ conditions.
- Division Standings: The Cubs rank 2nd in the NL Central, and the Pirates rank 5th.
- Game Odds: The Cubs’ moneyline is set at +111, and the Pirates are at -130.
- Broadcast Details: The game will be televised on SN PT.
Pirates Look to Steady the Ship Against Cubs
Chicago Cubs’ Offensive Outlook
The Chicago Cubs enter the game with a batting average ranking of 19th in the league at .230. Despite their low ranking in slugging percentage at 27th with .348, the Cubs have managed to hit 107 home runs, placing them 26th in the league.
The Cubs’ ability to draw walks is notable, ranking 8th in the league with 501 walks. This discipline at the plate could be a significant factor against the Pirates’ pitching staff.
Key Players to Watch
Chicago’s lineup features several players capable of making an impact, including standout hitter Pete Crow-Armstrong. Known for his extra-base hitting ability, Crow-Armstrong could be pivotal in driving in runs for the Cubs.
Dansby Swanson is another player to keep an eye on, as his recent performance against the Pirates included a crucial double that helped extend the Cubs’ lead. His consistency at the plate adds depth to Chicago’s lineup.
Pitching Performance
On the mound for the Cubs is Cade Horton, who boasts a solid 2.70 ERA and a 10-4 record. Horton’s WHIP of 1.11 suggests he effectively limits base runners, a skill that will be tested against the Pirates.
With a pitching staff that ranks 11th in ERA at 3.87, the Cubs’ pitchers have shown the ability to keep games competitive. Their 3rd place rank in home runs given up (142) indicates a focus on limiting long balls.
Chicago Cubs’ Betting Trends
- SU Last 5 Games: 3-2
- Runline Last 5: 4-1
- O/U Last 5: 2-3
- SU in Night Games: 30-25
- SU in Away Games: 32-30
The Cubs have been relatively strong against the runline recently, going 4-1 in their last 5 games. Their overall performance in night games (30-25) and away games (32-30) suggests they are a formidable opponent on the road.
The Cubs Aim for Another Win on the Road
Team Hitting Performance
The Pittsburgh Pirates head into this game with a batting average of .249, placing them 9th in the league. Their on-base percentage is slightly better, ranking 8th with a value of .320. This suggests a consistent ability to get runners on base, an essential factor in their offensive strategy.
The Pirates’ slugging percentage is ranked 6th at .427, reflecting their capability to hit for power. Their lineup has delivered 202 home runs this season, placing them in the 7th position for long balls. Additionally, with 247 doubles, they maintain a balanced approach in extra-base hits.
Key Offensive Players
The Pirates’ lineup features some noteworthy hitters, contributing significantly to their offensive metrics. Their ability to draw walks ranks 5th, with 516 walks drawn this season. This patience at the plate complements their power-hitting capabilities.
On the base paths, the Pirates are aggressive, stealing 153 bases, which ranks 2nd in the league. This speed adds an extra layer of threat, making them a dynamic team when they get on base. However, they have been struck out 1,171 times, which could be a concern against a team with strong pitching.
Pitching Strengths
The Pirates’ pitching staff has maintained a respectable 3.84 ERA, positioning them 9th in the league. This reflects a solid overall performance from their pitchers. They have allowed a batting average against of .240, ranking 8th, which indicates their effectiveness in limiting opponents’ hits.
Home runs have been a slight vulnerability for the Pirates, as they rank 19th in home runs given up with 184 allowed. Despite this, their rotation has achieved 58 quality starts, showing consistency in their starting pitching. Blown saves are minimal, with only 19, placing them 3rd in this category.
Team Betting Trends
- Runline in Away Games: 35-40 (46.7%)
- Runline when Scoring 5+: 51-15 (77.3%)
- O/U in Away Games: 34-41 (45.3%)
- O/U Totals ≥ 9: 24-21 (53.3%)
Starting Pitcher Spotlight
Paul Skenes will be on the mound for the Pirates, bringing an impressive ERA of 1.92 and a WHIP of 0.92. His record stands at 10-9, suggesting he has been a reliable option for the Pirates’ rotation. Skenes’ ability to limit base runners and maintain a low ERA makes him a formidable opponent.
For the Pirates to succeed, Skenes’ performance will be crucial, especially against a strong Cubs lineup. His control and ability to work deep into games will be key factors in determining the outcome of this contest.
Pirates vs Cubs Prediction: Cubs +111
The Chicago Cubs come into this game with a solid 86-64 record and are in the midst of a two-game winning streak. The Cubs’ recent performance against the Pirates shows dominance with a 7-3 record in their last ten meetings, outscoring Pittsburgh by an average margin of 1.2 runs. Given their current form and the Pirates’ struggles, backing the Cubs as underdogs at +111 offers valuable odds.
Pittsburgh Pirates, with a 65-86 record, are currently on a two-game losing streak and have lost nine of their last ten games. Although they have a strong pitcher in Paul Skenes with a 1.92 ERA, the Pirates have struggled offensively, which is reflected in their poor slugging percentage of .348, ranked 27th in the league. The Cubs’ consistent pitching and ability to capitalize on offensive opportunities make them a good pick here.
While the Pirates have a decent home record of 42-34, their division record is a dismal 17-30. On the other hand, the Cubs have been formidable in division games with a 25-18 record, showcasing their ability to perform in crucial divisional battles. The Cubs’ road record of 40-35 further indicates their capability to win away games, making them a strong contender against the Pirates.
Considering the Cubs’ consistent performance, recent head-to-head success, and the Pirates’ current form, the Cubs are favored to continue their dominance. The Cubs’ pitching strength, combined with their ability to exploit the Pirates’ weaknesses, should lead them to a narrow victory. Projected final score: Cubs 3 – Pirates 2.
- Pirates vs Cubs Prediction: Cubs +111
- Pirates vs Cubs Score: Cubs 3 – Pirates 2
