Cleveland (40-42) at Chi. Cubs (49-35)
- When: Jul 1 2025, 8:05 PM
- Where: Wrigley Field, Chicago
- Where to watch: CLEG
MLB Preview and Prediction: Cleveland at Chi. Cubs
Moneyline: Chi. Cubs -182
Total: 8.0
Spread: Chi. Cubs -1.5 (+120)
Chicago Cubs Preview
The Cubs return to Wrigley Field looking to build off a gem from Matthew Boyd, who’s been dealing like it’s 2016 again. After reviving his form in Cleveland last season, Boyd (7-3, 2.65 ERA) has anchored the Cubs rotation in 2025. Over his last six starts, he’s delivered five quality outings, posting a dominant 1.49 ERA and holding opponents in check with just three hits over six shutout innings in St. Louis last week.
Despite losing seven of their last 11, the Cubs are clinging to the NL Central lead thanks to their offense, which ranks second in the majors in runs scored. That said, inconsistency still haunts this team, they’ve been held to two or fewer runs in 11 of their last 29 games. Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker lead the way but have cooled off lately, leaving room for a bounce-back spot at the plate.
Cleveland Guardians Preview
Things have gone from bad to worse in Cleveland. Since May 24, the Guardians have gone just 11-20, with their offense completely disappearing, averaging only 3.0 runs per game over that stretch. They’ve dropped four straight and were outscored 27-6 in that skid, including being blanked three times. Sunday’s 7-0 loss to the Cardinals was capped off with just three hits and two defensive errors.
Steven Kwan and Jose Ramirez, normally the engine of this lineup, have been ice-cold. Kwan is 2-for-21 over the last five games, and Ramirez hasn’t fared much better. Adding to Cleveland’s woes, Ramirez owns a paltry .188 batting average in 13 career games at Wrigley.
Gavin Williams (5-3, 3.68 ERA) draws the start and will be facing the Cubs for the first time. He’s coming off a shaky start against Toronto, where he gave up four runs (three earned) in just over five innings. He’ll need to be sharp to keep Cleveland in the fight.
Prediction & Betting Picks
The Guardians are spiraling, and the Cubs have their ace on the mound with a chance to capitalize on a cold lineup. Boyd’s form and the Cubs’ offensive depth give them a big edge here.
Final Score Prediction: Cubs 6, Guardians 2
Best Bet: Chi. Cubs -1.5 (+120)
Total: Under 8.5 Alt Lines (-125)
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
