MLB

Rays vs Cubs

Wind gusts and playoff rust—who bends, who breaks?

Tampa Bay Rays

Rays (72-74) VS Cubs (83-63)

13 Sep 2025 | 2:20 PM ET | Wrigley Field, Chicago

Chicago Cubs
Moneyline Pick - Chicago Cubs (-120): B+

Chicago carries momentum into this matchup with Tampa Bay, and the elements tilt in the Cubs’ favor. Their starter has been sharp all season, and facing a Rays lineup thin on right-handed power adds to his outlook. On the other side, Tampa Bay’s projected arm has struggled away from home, and Chicago’s offense has been in strong form, producing both for average and power in recent weeks. With several bats seeing the ball well and matchup history working against the Rays’ starter, this pick leans toward the Cubs as the side to back.

From a betting perspective, the value comes from pairing form with reliability. Chicago has the combination of frontline pitching and an in-rhythm lineup, while Tampa Bay continues to labor through uneven results. Even with only modest juice, the setup favors the home side enough to justify the play. For bettors looking for a prediction rooted in both trends and context, backing the Cubs to extend their surge looks like the smart bet.

This prediction gets a B+ grade. Odds and availability subject to change. Follow Shurzy on Instagram and Tiktok for more expert picks.

This bet was made on 13/09/2025 at 9:15am

Over/Under Pick - Over 8.5 (-120): B

Chicago and Tampa Bay meet in a matchup where the run environment projects higher than usual. Neither bullpen has been particularly trustworthy of late, and the absence of a key closer for the Cubs further exposes late innings. Wrigley’s forecast adds to the picture, with wind historically boosting scoring when it pushes out to left. While Chicago’s starter is adept at limiting damage on the ground, Tampa Bay’s offense has held its own against left-handed pitching and remains capable of capitalizing. With urgency high on both sides and defensive depth tested late, this pick points toward the over as the stronger play.

From a betting standpoint, the case for the total is rooted in both trends and situational factors. Chicago’s offense is already in rhythm, and Tampa’s splits suggest it can contribute enough to push the number. Bullpen volatility only strengthens the outlook, as neither side appears equipped to shut the door if rallies develop. For bettors seeking a logical angle with multiple paths to cashing, this prediction leans confidently on runs clearing the posted mark.

This prediction gets a B grade. Odds and availability subject to change. Follow Shurzy on Instagram and Tiktok for more expert picks.

This bet was made on 13/09/2025 at 9:17am

Spread Pick - Chicago Cubs, +1.5 (-204): A-

Chicago enters this matchup in a spot where the run line holds clear value. With their rotation anchored by a reliable left-hander, the Cubs are positioned to keep the game close even if Tampa Bay manages early production. Their offense has been steady as well, mixing contact and power to sustain pressure, while the Rays’ bullpen remains vulnerable in late innings. Given Chicago’s recent surge in form and the added cushion of +1.5, this pick favors the Cubs to stay within striking distance and cover.

From a betting perspective, the angle here leans on probability rather than risk. Even if the Cubs fall short outright, their combination of frontline pitching, balanced lineup, and playoff motivation reduces the likelihood of a multi-run defeat. Tampa Bay has struggled to consistently separate from opponents, and Chicago’s ability to generate timely offense only reinforces the case. For bettors seeking security without sacrificing value, this prediction makes the Cubs on the run line the smart bet.

This prediction gets a A- grade. Odds and availability subject to change. Follow Shurzy on Instagram and Tiktok for more expert picks.

This bet was made on 13/09/2025 at 9:19am

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