Matchday: Thursday, June 12, 2025
First Pitch: 8:05 PM ET
Venue: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Broadcast: Marquee Sports Network, AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh, MLB.TV
Overview: Pirates vs. Cubs – NL Central Rivalry
The Chicago Cubs (41-27) host the Pittsburgh Pirates (28-41) in the first game of a four-game series at Wrigley Field. The Cubs are coming off a series loss to the Phillies, while the Pirates have won four of their last five games, including a 5-2 victory over the Marlins in their previous outing.
Chicago has been dominant at home, boasting a 20-11 record at Wrigley Field, while Pittsburgh has struggled on the road, going 9-22 away from PNC Park.
Chicago Cubs: Looking to Rebound
The Cubs have been one of the top offensive teams in MLB, ranking third in batting average (.258) and second in runs scored (376). Their lineup features power hitters like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker, who have combined for 30 home runs this season.
Key Players to Watch:
- Kyle Tucker – .274 AVG, 13 HR, 43 RBI; Cubs’ top slugger
- Pete Crow-Armstrong – .271 AVG, 17 HR, 55 RBI; emerging star
- Jameson Taillon – Starting pitcher; 6-3 record, 3.54 ERA, 58 strikeouts
Injury Report:
- Out: Miguel Amaya (oblique), Porter Hodge (oblique), Eli Morgan (elbow), Shota Imanaga (leg), Javier Assad (oblique), Justin Steele (elbow)
Pittsburgh Pirates: Gaining Momentum
The Pirates have been inconsistent but are showing signs of improvement, winning four of their last five games. Oneil Cruz has been their standout performer, leading the team with 13 home runs and 24 stolen bases.
Key Players to Watch:
- Oneil Cruz – .229 AVG, 13 HR, 29 RBI, 24 SB; Pirates’ biggest offensive threat
- Bryan Reynolds – .233 AVG, 8 HR, 39 RBI; key run producer
- Andrew Heaney – Starting pitcher; 3-4 record, 3.24 ERA, 52 strikeouts
Injury Report:
- Out: Johan Oviedo (lat), Tim Mayza (shoulder), Joey Bart (concussion), Justin Lawrence (elbow), Jared Jones (elbow), Emmanuel Valdez (shoulder), Colin Holderman (thumb), Endy Rodriguez (shoulder)
Head-to-Head: Pirates vs. Cubs
- Season Series: Cubs lead 3-1
- Last Meeting: Cubs 7-3 Pirates (May 15, 2025)
- At Wrigley Field: Cubs are 20-11 at home this season
Tactical Breakdown & Prediction
The Cubs will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage, relying on Taillon’s pitching and their power-hitting lineup. The Pirates, meanwhile, must find ways to manufacture runs and avoid falling behind early.
Game Odds
Pittsburgh Pirates 7.5
Chicago Cubs -206
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, June 11, 2025
