The Cincinnati Reds head to Wrigley Field to face the Chicago Cubs to open a pivotal three-game series in the National League Central. With both teams chasing playoff spots, this Reds vs Cubs MLB matchup is loaded with postseason implications, betting intrigue, and star power.
Game Overview
| Category | Cincinnati Reds | Chicago Cubs |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 58–54 (3rd in NL Central) | 65–46 (2nd in NL Central) |
| Road/Home Split | 25–28 (Road) | 35–20 (Home) |
| Betting Odds | Reds +121 | Cubs -132 |
| Over/Under | 8 runs |
The Cubs lead the season series 4–2 and enter as slight favorites, but the Reds are riding a stronger recent stretch.
Pitching Matchup
- Reds Starter: Nick Lodolo
- Record: 8–6
- ERA: 3.09
- WHIP: 1.05
- Strikeouts: 123
- Strength: Dominates right-handed hitters (.211 AVG allowed)
- Cubs Starter: Mike Soroka
- Record: 3–8
- ERA: 4.87
- WHIP: 1.13
- Strikeouts: 87
- Strength: Effective vs righties (.197 AVG allowed), struggles vs lefties
Lodolo’s command and strikeout ability give Cincinnati a rotation edge, while Soroka makes his Cubs debut after being acquired at the trade deadline.
Key Players to Watch
Chicago Cubs
- Pete Crow-Armstrong: 27 HR, .548 SLG – Top 10 in MLB for HR and RBI
- Nico Hoerner: .295 AVG – Batting .421 over last 5 games
- Seiya Suzuki: 26 HR, 82 RBI – Power bat in the middle of the lineup
Cincinnati Reds
- Elly De La Cruz: .282 AVG, 19 HR, 72 RBI – Team leader in all major categories
- TJ Friedl: .271 AVG, 16 doubles, 10 HR – Speed and contact threat
- Noelvi Marte: Batting .278 over last 10 games – Emerging contributor
Recent Form & Trends
| Team | Last 10 Games | Batting Avg | ERA | Run Differential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cubs | 5–5 | .245 | 4.86 | –6 |
| Reds | 6–4 | .254 | 3.26 | +12 |
Cincinnati has outscored opponents by 12 runs in their last 10 games, while Chicago has been outscored by 6.
Nick Lodolo’s recent dominance and the Reds’ offensive balance make them a strong value pick, especially against Soroka’s vulnerability to left-handed hitters.
How to Watch
- TV Broadcast: Marquee Sports Network (Chicago), Bally Sports Ohio (Cincinnati)
- Streaming: MLB.TV, Fubo, FOX Sports App
Final Thoughts
This Reds vs Cubs MLB game is a must-watch for fans and bettors alike. With Nick Lodolo anchoring the Reds rotation and Elly De La Cruz leading a dynamic lineup, Cincinnati has the tools to challenge the Cubs at Wrigley. Chicago’s power bats and home-field advantage make them dangerous, but the Reds’ recent form and pitching edge could tilt the opener in their favor.
Game Odds
Cincinnati Reds 8
Chicago Cubs – 143
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Sunday, August 3, 2025
