Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs 9/21/23 MLB Odds and Picks
Pittsburgh Pirates (70-81) vs. Chicago Cubs (79-72)
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs 9/21/23 – At the tail-end of 2023 MLB season, two of its fiercest rivals — Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs — will collide in what should be a highly-competitive clash. Set to occur Thursday September 21, 2023 at 7:40 PM ET at Wrigley Field, while Pittsburgh currently own a 70-81 record that has been inconsistent while Chicago boasts 79-72 records with hopes to secure playoff positions.
Though they have struggled overall, the Pirates have shown some promise during road games where they are 37-36 against the spread. Their offense boasts 629 runs scored on 1183 hits with 147 homers being hit for. Their pitching staff has not fared nearly as well though; sporting an 4.56 ERA and 1.38 WHIP rating respectively; making their prediction impossible but certainly capable of surprising in this matchup with Cubs.
The Cubs may boast the better record, but have shown signs of vulnerability as of late. Their recent form has been subpar – going 1-4 over their last five games – yet their lineup boasts 763 runs and 182 homers this season with an batting average of 0.254 and superior slugging percentage (0.42). Their pitching staff also fared better with 4.03 ERA/WHIP values of 1.27; so even through recent struggles, they possess all of the tools to regain their footing against Pirates. Check out free professional MLB Picks for insights into their upcoming performances.
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs Game Info
Johan Oviedo (8-14 W-L, 4.27 ERA) vs. Kyle Hendricks (6-7 W-L, 3.77 ERA)
Johan Oviedo has had an unsuccessful season as the starting pitcher for the Pirates, evidenced by an 8-14 record and 4.27 ERA over 166.2 innings pitched. Over that span he allowed 150 hits, 76 walks, 17 homers while striking out 147 times; his 1.36 WHIP suggests too many baserunners may be allowed against an opposing lineup like Chicago’s. Furthermore, Oviedo’s high walk total highlights his struggles with command, giving Cubs batters ample chances to reach base and contribute.
Kyle Hendricks has been an integral member of the Cubs this season, even if his win-loss record of 6-7 doesn’t reflect that stability immediately. His 3.77 ERA and 1.17 WHIP over 126.2 innings demonstrate strong control with just 22 walks while giving up 13 homers; these stats suggest he keeps games within reach for his team while making less mistakes that lead to big innings for opponents; his low walks/home run rates demonstrate his command and game management skills that may sway this matchup in favor of Cubs over opponents’ in this matchup.
MLB Odds/Point Spread: Chicago Cubs -159, Total Odds: 8.5
Given current betting odds, the Cubs are the clear favorites with a moneyline of -159 and an 8.5 point spread. Pirates offer some value at +146 while their recent road performance may make them tempting but given their superior stats overall; Cubs remain a safer bet.
Pittsburgh Pirates Betting Trends
The Pirates haven’t enjoyed a particularly impressive run lately, posting only three wins out of their last five overall and against the spread. On the road however, they fared slightly better by posting 37-36 against the spread records against. Furthermore, 45 of 78 home games totals went OVER as well as two out of their last five overall contests have seen totals go OVER in each case.
Chicago Cubs Betting Trends
The Cubs have found themselves mired in an extended slump, going 1-4 over their last five games against the spread and being outscored 74-77 at home by opponents against the spread. Their road games against the spread have seen 33-42 wins against them against this year compared with 33-42 during their season earlier. Furthermore, three out of their last five home games saw totals go OVER in three consecutive contests (ie totals have risen during 37 out of their 76 home games played so far this season).
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs 9/21/23 Betting Picks
Looking at both teams’ recent form, their strengths, and weaknesses, this game appears set for a close match-up; however, given the Cubs’ home advantage and superior stats they appear to be the safer pick.
Prop bettors or those interested in betting the over/under may find the point spread of 8.5 tilts slightly towards an over, especially given both teams’ historical trend of their total going OVER. Check out free sports picks
