Diamondbacks vs Cubs Prediction, Pick, Odds for Friday, April 18, 2025
The Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks are set to clash at Wrigley Field on Friday, April 18, 2025, in a matchup that promises to be both thrilling and pivotal for both teams. With the Cubs' explosive offense and the Diamondbacks' ace Corbin Burnes on the mound, this game is a must-watch for baseball enthusiasts.
Game Details
Date: Friday, April 18, 2025
Time: 2:20 PM ET
Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Broadcast: Marquee Sports Network (Cubs), Bally Sports Arizona (Diamondbacks)
Starting Pitchers
Chicago Cubs: Colin Rea (RHP)
Arizona Diamondbacks: Corbin Burnes (RHP)
Chicago Cubs: Offensive Powerhouse
The Cubs have emerged as one of the most formidable offensive teams in the league, leading MLB with 124 runs scored this season. Their aggressive baserunning strategy has paid dividends, with the team topping the league in stolen bases, closely followed by the Seattle Mariners. This approach has complemented their overall offensive firepower, including ranking second in team fWAR (5.5) and fifth in wRC+ (121), indicating they are 21% better than average in run creation.
Key Players:
Pete Crow-Armstrong: A catalyst on the basepaths, Crow-Armstrong has been instrumental in the Cubs' aggressive running game.
Nico Hoerner & Jon Berti: Both have contributed six steals apiece, showcasing the team's depth in speed and baserunning acumen.
Kyle Tucker: Acquired in December 2024, Tucker has made an immediate impact, hitting a home run in four consecutive games early in the season.
On the mound, Colin Rea returns to the Cubs after a successful 2024 season with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he posted a 12-6 record and a 4.29 ERA. Now 33, Rea brings a diverse pitching arsenal, including a 92 mph fastball, cutter, splitter, sinker, slider, and curve. His role in the rotation is pivotal, and expectations are set for a balanced performance throughout the season.
Arizona Diamondbacks: Anchored by Burnes
The Diamondbacks made a significant offseason move by signing Corbin Burnes to a six-year, $210 million contract, making him the cornerstone of their pitching staff. Burnes, a former Cy Young Award winner, brings a wealth of experience and a track record of excellence.
Corbin Burnes' 2025 Season Stats:
Win-Loss Record: 3-0
ERA: 1.35
Strikeouts: 17
WHIP: 0.98
Burnes' performance has been stellar, showcasing his ability to dominate hitters and provide stability to the Diamondbacks' rotation. His cutter, once a concern due to declining whiff rates, has seen improvements, and his overall command remains elite.
Key Offensive Contributors:
Corbin Carroll & Ketel Marte: Both players are expected to lead the offensive charge, providing a mix of power and speed.
Eugenio Suárez: Brings veteran presence and power-hitting capabilities to the lineup.
Betting Odds
Moneyline: Cubs -110, Diamondbacks -110
Run Line: Cubs -1.5 (+150), Diamondbacks +1.5 (-180)
Over/Under: 8.5 runs
Prediction
This matchup presents a classic battle between a high-octane offense and a dominant pitcher. The Cubs' aggressive baserunning and offensive depth will test Burnes' ability to control the game. Conversely, Burnes' elite pitching could neutralize the Cubs' offensive threats.
Final Score Prediction: Cubs 5, Diamondbacks 3
Best Bets:
Moneyline: Cubs -110
Over/Under: Under 8.5 runs
