MLB Game Preview: Chicago Cubs (41-37) vs. New York Mets (34-44)

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NEW YORK – The Chicago Cubs and New York Mets will play a split doubleheader Wednesday at Citi Field after Tuesday’s postponement, with Chicago entering the twin bill at 41–37 and the Mets at 34–44. First pitch for Game 1 is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. ET, with Game 2 set for 7:10 p.m. ET.

The Cubs continue to push toward the top of the NL Central, while the Mets look to halt a June slide that has pushed them down the standings.

VENUE

Citi Field — Queens, New York

Game 1: 1:10 p.m. ET

Game 2: 7:10 p.m. ET

Surface: Natural grass

Dimensions: 335–408–330

WEATHER

(Applies to both games)

  • Temperature: 79–83°F
  • Wind: 7 mph blowing out to left-center
  • Humidity: 58%
  • Chance of rain: <10%

Conditions slightly favor hitters, especially in the afternoon game.

PROBABLE PITCHERS

Chicago Cubs — Game 1 Starter: TBD

Chicago is expected to use a spot starter or bullpen-heavy approach in the opener. The Cubs’ bullpen has been stretched thin recently, ranking in the bottom third of MLB in ERA over the last two weeks.

New York Mets — Game 1 Starter: TBD

The Mets are also expected to deploy a bullpen game, with multiple relievers available after Tuesday’s postponement.

Chicago Cubs — Game 2 Starter: TBD

The Cubs have not yet announced their Game 2 starter, though a right-hander from the rotation or a call-up remains likely.

New York Mets — Game 2 Starter: TBD

New York has not confirmed its evening starter, but internal options suggest a right-hander with mid-rotation experience.

(Note: Because the Mets and Cubs have not yet announced official starters for either game of the doubleheader, the preview focuses on team trends, lineup matchups, and bullpen usage.)

INJURY REPORT

Chicago Cubs

  • Seiya Suzuki — ACTIVE
  • Cody Bellinger — ACTIVE
  • Dansby Swanson — ACTIVE
  • Nico Hoerner — OUT (hamstring)
  • Ben Brown — OUT (shoulder)

New York Mets

  • Pete Alonso — ACTIVE
  • Francisco Lindor — ACTIVE
  • Brandon Nimmo — ACTIVE
  • Kodai Senga — OUT (triceps)
  • Starling Marte — OUT (groin)

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Chicago Cubs (41–37)

  • Last 10: 6–4
  • Trend: Pitching stabilizing; offense improving on the road
  • Strength: Top‑of‑order production, defensive efficiency
  • Weakness: Bullpen depth, inconsistent power

New York Mets (34–44)

  • Last 10: 4–6
  • Trend: Offense streaky; pitching struggling late in games
  • Strength: Middle‑order power
  • Weakness: Run prevention, bullpen ERA among worst in NL

KEY PLAYER MATCHUPS

Pete Alonso (NYM) vs Cubs Pitching

Alonso’s power remains the Mets’ biggest threat. Chicago’s staff has allowed elevated home‑run rates to right‑handed hitters in June.

Cody Bellinger (CHC) vs Mets Bullpen

Bellinger’s ability to hit late‑inning velocity could be decisive in a doubleheader where both teams may lean heavily on relievers.

Francisco Lindor (NYM) vs Cubs Right-Handed Pitching

Lindor has surged in June, hitting for both power and average. His matchup against Chicago’s right‑handed arms favors New York.

SERIES HISTORY

  • Season series: Cubs lead 2–1
  • At Citi Field: Cubs have won 5 of last 7
  • Recent trend: Chicago has outscored New York 21–14 across their last five meetings

BETTING TRENDS

Chicago Cubs

  • 5–2 in last seven road games
  • Under has hit in 6 of last 9
  • 4–1 in last five vs Mets

New York Mets

  • 3–7 in last 10 home games
  • Over has hit in 7 of last 10
  • 1–5 in last six divisional games
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