Pittsburgh Pirates vs
Chicago CubsPredictions & Preview

Pittsburgh Pirates to Face Chicago Cubs in Game 2 at Wrigley Field, Seeking to Extend Series Lead

The Pittsburgh Pirates will face off against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on September 3rd for Game 2 of their series, with the Pirates leading after winning Game 1. Rising star Paul Skenes will start for the Pirates, while the Cubs will counter with Justin Steele. The game will be aired on SportsNet-PIT and Marquee Sports Network as both teams compete for a crucial victory. The current betting line favors the Cubs, who will be looking to even the series with a win.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Pirates -116 | Cubs +105
• Spread: Pirates -1.5 (+140) | Cubs +1.5 (-162)
• Total: Over/Under 7.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Chicago will win straight-up is 51%.

Pittsburgh vs Chicago Stats

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates secured a thrilling 5-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs in their series opener, highlighted by a late-game surge fueled by back-to-back home runs from Andrew McCutchen and Bryan Reynolds. Nick Gonzales also made a significant offensive contribution, while starter Jared Jones and relievers Aroldis Chapman and Jalen Beeks delivered solid performances on the mound. The Pirates will look to continue their success in Game 2 with rookie sensation Paul Skenes, boasting an impressive 8-2 record this season. Despite their power ranking of 26, the Pirates have shown strength in both offense and defense this season, with a record of 64-73. The Cubs will face a challenge in overcoming Skenes' dominant pitching performance.

Chicago Cubs Analysis

The Chicago Cubs lost 5-3 to the Pittsburgh Pirates in the opening game despite a strong performance from pitcher Jameson Taillon. Despite offensive contributions from players like Dansby Swanson and Ian Happ, the bullpen struggled in the late innings, leading to the Cubs' defeat. Looking ahead, the Cubs will rely on pitcher Justin Steele, who has been a reliable presence on the mound this season, to turn things around in Game 2. With a power ranking of 3 and solid rankings for both offense and defense, the Cubs will aim to improve their 71-67 record and secure a win against the Pirates.

Chicago Cubs Show Impressive Offense and Defense in Second Place Standings, Pittsburgh Pirates Struggle in Fifth Place

The Chicago Cubs are currently positioned in second place in the National League Central with a 71-67 record, illustrating a well-rounded blend of offensive and defensive capabilities. They maintain an average of 4.57 runs and 8.08 hits per game, with a team batting average of .240 and on-base percentage of .316. The pitching staff has effectively limited opposing teams to 4.19 runs and 8.05 hits per game, resulting in a +52 run differential. Opponents struggle against the Cubs, hitting an average of .239 with a .306 on-base percentage.

On the other hand, the Pittsburgh Pirates are currently in fifth place in the National League Central with a 64-73 record. They have an average of 4.21 runs and 8.03 hits per game, with a team batting average of .236 and on-base percentage of .302. However, their pitching staff has had difficulties, leading to a -50 run differential. Opponents have found success against the Pirates, averaging 4.57 runs and 8.57 hits per game, with a .252 batting average and .321 on-base percentage.

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