CHICAGO — Rookie sensation Paul Skenes headlines Saturday’s Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates matchup at Wrigley Field. First pitch is 5:40 PM CT on July 25. Skenes, who boasts a 2.18 ERA and 142 strikeouts over 95 innings this season, is the central factor in the betting lines.
The Cubs (48-52) are +125 underdogs. The Pirates (55-45) are -145 favorites. The over/under is set at 7.5 runs, according to FanDuel.
Paul Skenes: The Key Factor in Cubs vs Pirates
Skenes’ strikeout rate (34.2%) ranks among the league’s elite. He has allowed two earned runs or fewer in 12 of his last 14 starts. His slider generates a 42% whiff rate. The Cubs’ lineup, which ranks 15th in wRC+ against right-handed pitching, will struggle to make consistent contact. No injury updates; Skenes is fully rested.
Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Preview: Saturday 7/25 at 5:40 PM CT
Weather at Wrigley Field: 76°F, partly cloudy, wind blowing out to left at 10 mph. This favors the Pirates’ power bats. Key Cubs batter to watch: Cody Bellinger, who is 2-for-6 with a double against Skenes historically. Pirates’ leadoff hitter Oneil Cruz is 0-for-7 with 4 strikeouts against Cubs starter Jameson Taillon.
Historical trend: The Pirates have won 6 of the last 8 meetings at Wrigley.
How to Live Stream Chicago Cubs vs Pittsburgh Pirates: MLB TV Channel Guide
- TV: Marquee Sports Network (Cubs market), AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pirates market).
- Stream: MLB.TV (subscription required). Free trial available via Yahoo Sports app. Cord-cutters can use FuboTV or DirecTV Stream.
- International: MLB.TV is available globally with a VPN.
Fans often miss game time due to scattered info. Set a reminder for 5:40 PM CT.
Cubs vs Pirates Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today’s MLB Game
| Bet Type | Odds (FanDuel) | Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Cubs +125 / Pirates -145 | Pirates -145 |
| Run Line | Cubs +1.5 (-130) / Pirates -1.5 (+110) | Pirates -1.5 (+110) |
| Over/Under | Over 7.5 (-105) / Under 7.5 (-115) | Under 7.5 (-115) |
| Skenes Strikeouts (O/U) | Over 7.5 (-120) / Under 7.5 (Even) | Over 7.5 (-120) |
Prediction: Pirates win 4-1. Skenes strikes out 8. Under hits. The Cubs’ bullpen has a 4.89 ERA over the last 30 days, a liability against Pittsburgh’s deep lineup.
Final Thoughts and Betting Trends
Paul Skenes is the single most impactful player on the field. His presence lowers the run total and strengthens the Pirates’ moneyline. For live stream, MLB.TV remains the most reliable option. The wind at Wrigley could inflate exit velocity, but Skenes’ command neutralizes that threat.
Bookmark this page for live updates and post-game analysis on Paul Skenes’ performance.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is Paul Skenes’ ERA this season?
- A: Paul Skenes has a 2.18 ERA over 95 innings this season.
- Q: Who are the favorites in the Cubs vs Pirates game?
- A: The Pittsburgh Pirates are -145 favorites, with the Cubs at +125 underdogs.
- Q: How can I live stream the Cubs vs Pirates game?
- A: You can stream the game via MLB.TV with a subscription, or check local channels Marquee Sports Network and AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh.
Extended Reading
Data for this report was sourced from Bleed Cubbie Blue, Yahoo Sports, and Covers.com odds board. Full game threads and live betting lines are available at those outlets.