Pirates vs Cubs predictions
When you look at the Pittsburgh Pirates, there are some bright spots to watch for, even if their overall record hasn't turned heads this season. Oneil Cruz stands out as a real power threat in the lineup—don’t be surprised if he connects for another home run at Wrigley, given how he’s been swinging lately. Andrew McCutchen remains the most consistent bat in the lineup, and it feels like every game he picks up a hit or two and finds a way to get on base. Bryan Reynolds is another guy who keeps driving in runs, so watch for him to make an impact in the middle of the order. On the mound, Mitch Keller will be doing his best to keep the red-hot Cubs at bay, and he’s shown he has enough strikeout stuff to quiet even the toughest hitters for five solid innings or more.
Switching over to the Chicago Cubs, this team is absolutely rolling at the plate, and you can bet players like Nico Hoerner will keep setting the table with multi-hit nights and excellent plate discipline. Pete Crow-Armstrong is turning into a power-speed combo that’s tough for any pitcher to handle; it wouldn’t be shocking to see him notch another extra-base hit, maybe even swipe a bag if the opportunity is there. Seiya Suzuki just keeps knocking in runs, so for him, another game with multiple RBIs is definitely in the cards. Colin Rea gets the start for Chicago, and with his ability to work deep into games while limiting damage, he could give the Cubs a real edge, especially with run support coming from up and down their loaded lineup.
Given how the series has played out and the way these two teams are trending, it’s hard not to like the Cubs’ chances to clinch another W here at Wrigley Field. The Cubs just have too much offense right now and their pitching is backing them up with steady performances. The Pirates might flash some fight—maybe an early highlight or two from Cruz or Reynolds—but Chicago feels like the team poised to take this one and stretch their NL Central lead even further. Cubs fans, what do you think: ready for another notch in the win column?
