San Diego (7-0) at Chi. Cubs (5-4)
- When: Apr 4 2025, 2:20 PM
- Where: Wrigley Field, Chicago
- Where to watch: SDPA
MLB Betting Preview: Padres vs Cubs
Moneyline: Chi. Cubs -168 | Total: 6.5
The Chicago Cubs enter Friday’s home opener as solid -168 moneyline favorites with a total set at 6.5 runs, welcoming the red-hot San Diego Padres for the first of a three-game set at Wrigley Field.
Padres Outlook:
San Diego is off to a perfect 7-0 start—its best in franchise history—riding high after consecutive sweeps of the Braves and Guardians. Fueled by dominant pitching and an efficient lineup, the Padres have looked like early contenders in the National League. Their staff owns MLB’s lowest team ERA at 1.57, while the lineup is hitting a robust .298, tied for second in the league.
Rookie sensation Jackson Merrill continues to make noise, entering Friday with two homers and eight RBIs after signing a nine-year, $135 million extension. Luis Arraez and Fernando Tatis Jr. have helped set the tone at the plate, while Randy Vasquez will make the start looking to replicate his scoreless, six-inning performance from his first outing of 2025.
Vasquez hasn’t lost in five career starts and held the Cubs to one run over 4 1/3 innings in a no-decision last year. If the Padres can continue their stellar pitching, the under 6.5 may come into play.
Cubs Outlook:
Chicago began its season sluggishly but flipped the script in a dominant road sweep of the Athletics, outscoring them 35-9. Seiya Suzuki has been red-hot with four home runs and 11 RBIs, while newly-acquired Kyle Tucker is batting .324 with matching power numbers. The Cubs’ offense is clearly clicking at the right time heading into their first game at Wrigley.
On the mound, Shota Imanaga gets the call. The lefty has been sharp out of the gate, allowing just one run in seven innings against Arizona in his 2025 debut. Imanaga has previous success against San Diego, pitching seven strong innings in a win last May.
Betting Prediction:
This one could shape up to be a pitcher’s duel between Imanaga and Vasquez, especially if the early-season arms stay hot. However, the Cubs’ current offensive momentum, along with the home-field edge, gives them a slight edge.
Best Bets:
Pick: Cubs Moneyline (-168)
Total: Lean UNDER 6.5 (+105)
Score Prediction: Cubs 4, Padres 2
San Diego’s flawless start may come to an end in a low-scoring, tightly contested battle at Wrigley.
- MLB Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
