Cubs vs. Pirates prediction: Why Pittsburgh is favored to win Sunday's MLB matchup [7/26/2026]
Get Chicago Cubs vs Pittsburgh Pirates predictions for MLB Sunday.
MLB action continues on Sunday at 1:35 PM ET as the Chicago Cubs take on the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park.
Braxton Ashcraft (9-4, 3.95 ERA) will start for the Pirates, while the Cubs are going with Jameson Taillon (2-5, 5.38 ERA).
Based on the latest simulation results, Dimers' proven MLB model gives the Pirates a slight edge with a 52.6% win probability over the Cubs.
This article offers a closer look at Sunday's Cubs vs. Pirates matchup, including best bets and picks.
Cubs vs. Pirates prediction: Who will win and cover?
Our leading predictive model gives the Pirates a 52.6% chance of defeating the Cubs.
According to our model, the Cubs (+1.5) have a 63.4% chance of covering the run line, while the over/under total of 8.5 runs has a 54.8% chance of going over,.
Cubs vs. Pirates odds [7/26/2026]
We have researched the best MLB odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Cubs | Pirates |
|---|---|---|
| Run Line | +1.5 (-175) | -1.5 (+174) |
| Moneyline | +117 | -122 |
| Total | o8.5 (-113) | u8.5 (+108) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Cubs vs. Pirates picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best current odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets in this matchup. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Run Line | Pirates -1.5 | +174 |
| Moneyline | Cubs | +117 |
| Total | Over 8.5 | -113 |
According to our MLB best bets, the top play to make on this game is Over 8.5 total runs.
These picks are based on our probabilities matched against the implied probabilities from the sportsbook odds.
Cubs vs. Pirates game-day updates and essential details
Sunday's MLB game between the Pirates and Cubs at PNC Park is scheduled to commence at 1:35 PM ET.
- Who: Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
- Date: Sunday, July 26, 2026
- Time: 1:35 PM ET/10:35AM PT
- Venue: PNC Park
Conclusion
We predict the Pirates, with a 52.6% win probability, will likely beat the Cubs in Sunday's MLB matchup.
Additional tools and information for betting safely can be found in our Responsible Gambling hub.
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Dave Garofolo uses sophisticated AI-driven analytics to make predictions and evaluate player performances in the NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAAM, and PGA TOUR tournaments, crafting insightful game and prop previews.
