Chi. Cubs (9-6) at LA Dodgers (10-4)
- When: Apr 11 2025, 10:10 PM
- Where: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
- Where to watch: MLBN
MLB Expert Breakdown & Predictions: Cubs at Dodgers
Moneyline: LA Dodgers -216 | Total: 7.5
Los Angeles Dodgers Outlook
After a red-hot 8-0 start to the season, the Dodgers cooled off during a challenging six-game road swing, going 2-4 against the Phillies and Nationals. They’ll now look to re-establish their dominance at home, where they’ve historically been tough to beat — and where they’ll welcome back Freddie Freeman to the lineup after his stint on the IL.
The Dodgers squeaked out a 6-5 win on Wednesday, avoiding a sweep in D.C. thanks to a big night from Teoscar Hernández (HR, 3 RBI) and some clutch late defense. Despite the sloppy defensive showing on the road trip, the team is confident they’ll tighten things up back in L.A.
On the mound Friday is right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto (1-1, 1.69 ERA), who’s looked strong out of the gate. He tossed six scoreless frames last week but was tagged with a tough-luck loss due to an early unearned run. Yamamoto already owns a win over the Cubs from the season-opening series in Japan and holds a 2-0 record with a stingy 0.64 ERA in three career outings vs. Chicago. He’s a solid target for strikeout prop bettors, with 20 Ks in 14 innings against the Cubs.
Key Player Props (Dodgers):
Teoscar Hernández Over 0.5 RBIs – He’s in rhythm at the plate and producing consistently in the middle of the lineup.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto Over 5.5 Strikeouts – Given his history vs. Chicago, he’s a good bet to rack them up again.
Chicago Cubs Outlook
Chicago had been rolling, winning seven of their last nine games, but their offense stalled in a 6-2 loss to Texas on Wednesday. They’ll now head west to face a familiar opponent that swept them overseas to start the season.
Despite the defeat, Cubs starter Matthew Boyd (1-0, 0.00 ERA) has been a bright spot. He’s yet to allow a run in 10 innings across his first two starts, showing poise and command. He’ll have his hands full Friday in a hitter-friendly park against a Dodgers lineup that is regaining its full strength.
With left-hander Justin Steele sidelined due to elbow soreness, the Cubs’ pitching depth will be tested. Manager Craig Counsell appears poised to keep his rotation on normal rest, likely slotting in a depth arm or long reliever for Sunday.
Key Player Props (Cubs):
Seiya Suzuki Over 1.5 Total Bases – He’s one of the few Cubs swinging a hot bat consistently.
Matthew Boyd Under 2.5 Earned Runs – Until proven otherwise, his form suggests he can limit damage early.
Betting Prediction
The Dodgers are heavy favorites, and for good reason. They’re back at Chavez Ravine, where they thrive, and they’re sending a trusted arm in Yamamoto to the hill. The Cubs’ offense has been shaky against elite pitching, and Freeman’s return gives the Dodgers a needed boost.
Pick Against the Spread: Dodgers -1.5 (-105)
Over/Under Prediction: Lean Under 7.5 (-105) – Both starting pitchers are in solid form.
Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 5, Cubs 2
Los Angeles gets back on track at home and extends their dominance over the Cubs with a strong showing on both sides of the ball.
- MLB Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
