The runs tend to disappear when Chicago and Pittsburgh meet up. In fact, the two have combined for just 4.57 runs per game during a seven-game Under streak in head-to-head matchups.
My Cubs vs. Pirates predictions see the Under trend continuing with two in-form pitchers on the mound tonight.
Let’s take a closer look at my MLB picks for September 15.
Cubs vs Pirates prediction
Cubs vs Pirates best bet: Under 8 (-105)
The Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates see a lot of each other as NL Central foes, and very rarely do they produce fireworks offensively. Of the 10 head-to-head meetings this season, just one game went Over the total.
I don’t expect to see much offense tonight either. Jameson Taillon has pitched very well of late, allowing just six earned runs over his last four starts. That includes matchups against playoff-bound teams like the Astros and Brewers.
He's done a great job of suppressing runs, and that should continue to be the case. The Pirates are in miserable form at the plate, ranking 29th in wOBA vs. right-handed pitching in September. It’ll be tough for them to create offense in this game.
The Cubs aren’t likely to pile up the runs either. They've averaged just over four runs per game this month while sitting 20th in ISO vs. right-handed pitching.
They’ve performed at a competent level but shouldn’t strike much fear into Braxton Ashcraft, who has conceded six runs over his last 25 1/3 innings of work, good for a 2.15 ERA.
With neither offense lighting it up and two in-form pitchers starting things off, this is likely to be another low-scoring affair.
Cubs vs Pirates same-game parlay (SGP)
The Cubs have the higher floor and ceiling offensively and, although not at the peak of their powers, are more likely to string together hits in this game.
Ashcraft is also well above his previous high in innings and has pitched into the sixth only once this season, leaving several innings for Chicago’s bats to come through against lesser pitchers.
Michael Busch has cleared his H+R+RBI line in three straight games and feasted on righties this season, which he should see in most of his ABs.
Cubs vs Pirates SGP
- Under 8
- Cubs moneyline
- Michael Busch Over 1.5 hits+runs+RBI
Cubs vs Pirates odds
- Moneyline: Chicago -130 | Pittsburgh +110
- Run line: Chicago -1.5 (+135) | Pittsburgh +1.5 (-160)
- Over/Under: Over 8.5 (+100) | Under 8.5 (-120)
Cubs vs Pirates trend
Seven straight head-to-head meetings have featured seven runs or fewer. Find more MLB betting trends for Cubs vs. Pirates.
How to watch Cubs vs Pirates and game info
| Location | PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA |
| Date | Monday, September 15, 2025 |
| First pitch | 6:40 p.m. ET |
| TV | MARQ, SNP |
| Cubs starting pitcher | Jameson Taillon (9-6, 4.15 ERA) |
| Pirates starting pitcher | Braxton Ashcraft (4-2, 2.47 ERA) |
Cubs vs Pirates latest injuries
Cubs vs Pirates weather
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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