Texas (8-2) at Chi. Cubs (7-5)
- When: Apr 7 2025, 7:40 PM
- Where: Wrigley Field, Chicago
- Where to watch: RSN
MLB Betting Preview & Predictions: Rangers vs Cubs
Moneyline: Chi. Cubs -128 | Total: 6.0
The Chicago Cubs open as -128 moneyline favorites and the total is set at 6.0 runs as they welcome the red-hot Texas Rangers to Wrigley Field on Monday night in what’s shaping up to be a speed-meets-power showdown.
Rangers Outlook
Texas comes in riding a five-game win streak after walking off the Tampa Bay Rays in dramatic fashion on Sunday. Jonah Heim played the hero with a two-out RBI single in the bottom of the ninth, capping a three-game sweep and maintaining their spot atop the AL West. The Rangers have made baserunning a priority this season, stealing 14 bags in 14 attempts so far. That includes swiping at least three bases in each of their last three games — tying a franchise record.
Texas will lean on veteran Nathan Eovaldi, who has looked dominant out of the gate. He blanked Cincinnati over six innings in his last outing, striking out eight in a 1-0 gem. With a 1.20 ERA through two starts, Eovaldi will be the key to slowing down a Cubs team that leads the National League in run differential (+21). However, he’s 0-2 in four career starts against Chicago.
Cubs Outlook
Despite an 8-7 setback against the Padres on Sunday, Chicago remains in first place in the NL Central and has impressed with its aggressive play on the basepaths. Nico Hoerner and Kyle Tucker have combined for nine stolen bases, and center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong could be a bigger threat if he finds his rhythm at the plate.
Lefty Justin Steele will take the mound for the Cubs. He bounced back in his last outing against Oakland, allowing four runs but striking out six over nearly seven innings. Steele owns a 1-0 record with a 1.69 ERA in two career starts vs. Texas and will look to continue holding down a Rangers lineup that’s been explosive of late.
Betting Prediction
This game has all the ingredients of a tightly contested pitcher’s duel, with both teams showcasing speed and offensive consistency. The Cubs have a slight edge thanks to their strong bullpen and familiarity with Eovaldi. If Steele can navigate the early innings and neutralize the running game, Chicago is in a solid spot to bounce back and grab Game 1.
Final Score Prediction: Cubs 3, Rangers 2
Best Bets:
Pick: Cubs ML (-128)
Over/Under Lean: Under 6.0 (-115)
Justin Steele Over 5.5 Strikeouts
Nico Hoerner Over 0.5 Stolen Bases
Look for a low-scoring chess match where one or two aggressive baserunning plays make all the difference.
- MLB Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
