Diamondbacks vs. Cubs prediction: Why Cubs are favored to win Friday's MLB matchup [5/1/2026]

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Written by Dave Garofolo

Get Arizona Diamondbacks vs Chicago Cubs predictions for MLB Friday.

Arizona Diamondbacks-Chicago Cubs Predictions and Game Preview.
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Chicago Cubs MLB prediction for Friday, May 1, 2026.

The Chicago Cubs will face the Arizona Diamondbacks, in what is expected to be a tight MLB game, at Wrigley Field on Friday, starting at 2:20 PM ET.

The Cubs will start Colin Rea (3-1, 4.61 ERA), pitting him against Zac Gallen (1-1, 3.14 ERA) for the Diamondbacks.

Based on the latest simulations, Dimers' advanced MLB model gives the Cubs a slight edge with a 54% win probability over the Diamondbacks.

This article offers a closer look at Friday's Diamondbacks vs. Cubs matchup, including best bets and picks.

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

Using powerful machine learning and statistical analysis, we have simulated the result of Friday's MLB game between the Diamondbacks and Cubs, forming part of our MLB predictions coverage.

Our leading predictive model currently gives the Cubs a 54% chance of beating the Diamondbacks.

According to our model, the Diamondbacks (+1.5) have a 64% chance of covering the run line, while the over/under total of seven runs has a 59% chance of going over.

 

Diamondbacks vs. Cubs odds [5/1/2026]

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

Bet Type Diamondbacks Cubs
Run Line +1.5 (-178) -1.5 (+165)
Moneyline +123 -142
Total o7 (-115) u7 (-105)

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

Diamondbacks vs. Cubs picks and best bet

After matching our predictions against the best current 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 Diamondbacks +1.5 -178
Moneyline Diamondbacks +123
Total Over 7 -115

According to our best MLB bets, the top play to make on this game is Over 7 total runs.

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

 

Diamondbacks vs. Cubs game-day updates and essential details

Friday's MLB game between the Cubs and Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field is scheduled to commence at 2:20 PM ET.

Conclusion

We predict the Cubs, with a 54% win probability, will likely beat the Diamondbacks in Friday'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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