Cubs vs. Pirates prediction: Why Pittsburgh is favored to win Tuesday's MLB matchup [5/26/2026]

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Written by Dave Garofolo

Get Chicago Cubs vs Pittsburgh Pirates predictions for MLB Tuesday.

Chicago Cubs-Pittsburgh Pirates Predictions and Game Preview.
Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates MLB prediction for Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The Pittsburgh Pirates will take on the Chicago Cubs, in what is expected to be a close MLB game, at PNC Park on Tuesday, starting at 6:40 PM ET.

Braxton Ashcraft (3-2, 2.89 ERA) will start for the Pirates, up against Jordan Wicks (0-0, 0.00 ERA) for the Cubs.

Based on updated simulation results, Dimers' proven MLB model gives the Pirates a slight edge with a 53% win probability over the Cubs.

This article offers further insights into Tuesday's Cubs vs. Pirates matchup, including best bets and picks.

Cubs vs. Pirates prediction: Who will win and cover?

Using trusted machine learning and statistical analysis, we have simulated the result of Tuesday's MLB matchup between the Cubs and Pirates, forming part of our MLB predictions coverage.

Our famous predictive model gives the Pirates a 53% chance of defeating the Cubs.

According to our model, the Cubs (+1.5) have a 64% chance of covering the run line, while the 8-run over/under has a 55% chance of going over.

 

Cubs vs. Pirates odds [5/26/2026]

We have researched the best MLB odds in America for this game, which are listed here:

Bet Type Cubs Pirates
Run Line +1.5 (-179) -1.5 (+162)
Moneyline +119 -134
Total o8 (-115) u8 (-105)

All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

Cubs vs. Pirates picks and best bet

After matching our predictions against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:

Bet Type Pick Bet Now
Run Line Cubs +1.5 -179
Moneyline Cubs +119
Total Over 8 -115

According to our MLB best bets, the top play to make on this game is Over 8 total runs.

These picks are based on our probabilities matched against the implied probabilities from the sportsbook odds.

 

Cubs vs. Pirates game-day updates and essential details

Tuesday's MLB matchup between the Pirates and Cubs at PNC Park is scheduled to start at 6:40 PM ET.

Conclusion

We predict the Pirates, with a 53% win probability, will likely beat the Cubs in Tuesday's MLB matchup.

Additional tools and information for betting safely can be found in our Responsible Gambling hub.

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Written by
Dave Garofolo
Content Producer

Dave Garofolo uses sophisticated AI-driven analytics to make predictions and evaluate player performances in the NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAAM, and PGA TOUR tournaments, crafting insightful game and prop previews.

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