MLB Game Preview: Arizona Diamondbacks (12-8) vs. Chicago Cubs (13-9)

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The Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicago Cubs are set to face off in Game 2 of their three-game series at Wrigley Field in Chicago on April 19, 2025, at 2:20 p.m. ET. This matchup follows a wild 13-11 Cubs victory on April 18, where both teams combined for 21 runs in the seventh and eighth innings, marking one of the most chaotic games in Wrigley Field history.

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Team Overview & Season Performance

Chicago Cubs (13-9, No. 1 in NL Central)

  • The Cubs lead the NL Central after their dramatic comeback win.
  • Ian Happ hit a grand slam in the seventh inning, sparking Chicago’s offensive explosion.
  • Seiya Suzuki, Kyle Tucker, and Carson Kelly all homered in the eighth to reclaim the lead.
  • Chicago’s offense ranks third in MLB in slugging percentage (.458) and home runs (32).

Arizona Diamondbacks (12-8, No. 2 in NL West)

  • The Diamondbacks suffered a heartbreaking loss despite scoring 10 runs in the eighth inning.
  • Eugenio Suárez hit a grand slam, while Lourdes Gurriel Jr. added another homer in the eighth.
  • Arizona’s bullpen struggled, allowing six runs in the bottom of the eighth to lose the game.
  • The Diamondbacks rank fifth in MLB in home runs (28) and slugging percentage (.460).

Key Matchups & X-Factors

Zac Gallen vs. Cubs’ Offense

  • Gallen (1-2, 4.64 ERA) will start for Arizona, looking to bounce back after allowing two earned runs in six innings against Milwaukee.
  • Chicago’s offense leads MLB in total hits (206) and batting average (.265).
  • If Gallen can control the game early, Arizona will have a strong chance to secure a win.

Ben Brown vs. Diamondbacks’ Power Hitters

  • Brown (2-1, 3.86 ERA) will take the mound for Chicago, hoping to contain Arizona’s explosive lineup.
  • The Diamondbacks have been aggressive early, scoring 10 runs in a single inning in their last game.
  • If Arizona’s hitters stay hot, Chicago’s pitching could struggle again.

Bullpen Battle

  • Arizona’s bullpen collapsed in the eighth inning, allowing six runs to lose the game.
  • Chicago’s relievers held strong, with Ryan Pressly securing the save.
  • If Arizona’s bullpen can rebound, they have a chance to even the series.

Game Odds

Arizona Diamondbacks                 7.5

Chicago Cubs                                     – 115

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 18, 2025