- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Chi. Cubs (88-66) at Cincinnati (78-76)
- When: Sep 19 2025, 6:40 PM
- Where: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati
- Where to watch: Marquee Sports Network-Chicago
Cubs vs. Reds – Game Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: Cincinnati -112
Spread: Cincinnati -1.5 (+165)
Total: 9.0
Cincinnati Reds Betting Outlook
Cincinnati isn’t rolling over in this playoff race. After Hunter Greene’s one-hit shutout on Thursday, the Reds followed with a homer-fest on Friday, launching five long balls in a 7-4 win. Spencer Steer blasted two and Elly De La Cruz finally ended a long drought with a solo shot.
The Reds (78-76) remain two games back of the Mets for the final NL wild-card spot. With only eight games left, every inning counts, and manager Terry Francona knows the margin for error is razor thin. Zack Littell gets the ball on Saturday, looking to duplicate his August debut against the Cubs where he struck out eight in a 5-1 win. He owns a sparkling 0.71 ERA lifetime against Chicago.
Prediction angle: Cincinnati’s bats are heating up at the right time, and Littell’s history vs. the Cubs makes them worth backing here.
Chicago Cubs Betting Outlook
The Cubs (88-66) clinched their playoff berth earlier this week, but back-to-back losses have raised questions about their focus. Rookie Matt Shaw went deep again Friday, his 10th since the All-Star break, but Chicago couldn’t hold a mid-game lead and let the Reds rally.
Javier Assad gets the start, fresh off three consecutive wins, though he’s struggled historically against Cincinnati (0-2, 3.16 ERA). Shortstop Dansby Swanson admitted the team must guard against a “letdown” after clinching, something that has shown up in the past two contests.
Prediction angle: Chicago has little urgency compared to Cincinnati’s desperation, and with Assad’s mixed history, the Cubs may not hold up late.
MLB Prediction & Betting Angle
Cincinnati keeps its playoff hopes alive while Chicago saves its energy for October baseball.
Score Prediction: Reds 6, Cubs 4
Pick: Cincinnati (-112)
Total: Over 9.0 (-112)
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
