Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Pick & Prediction MAY 1st 2025

Preview and Prediction

It can be challenging for second-year players to replicate a successful rookie season. However, for Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Paul Skenes, it has been business as usual.

The right-hander aims to continue his impressive sophomore campaign as he takes on the visiting Chicago Cubs in the deciding game of a three-game series on Thursday.

Skenes had a stellar performance last season, going 11-3 with a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts and was named the National League Rookie of the Year. This year, he holds a record of 3-2 with a 2.39 ERA and leads the NL with a 0.796 WHIP. Through six starts, opposing batters are hitting just .190 against him.

However, the 22-year-old LSU graduate acknowledges that there is still more for him to learn.

"They have all seen my pitches by now, so it's more of a game of strategy at this point," Skenes stated. "Throughout last season, we faced every possible approach. Now it's about recognizing and adapting to it during the game."

Skenes' diverse repertoire of pitches has been a key factor in his success this season. In his most recent outing against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday, he used his curveball 17 times, despite only using it 5.5 percent of the time previously. He struck out nine batters and allowed no walks or runs in 6 1/3 innings, leading the Pirates to a 3-0 victory.

"That's where he excels," manager Derek Shelton praised. "At just 22 years old, he has the ability to analyze and break down a game, while also recognizing which pitches are working for him that day. He's fortunate to have multiple weapons to use against his opponents."

Skenes boasts a record of 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA and 30 strikeouts in four career starts against the Cubs.

The Pirates head into Thursday's game after a come-from-behind 4-3 win against the Cubs on Wednesday. Ke'Bryan Hayes extended his hitting streak to 10 games, going 2-for-4. He has a batting average of .333 (13-for-39) during this stretch.

Meanwhile, the Cubs will be looking to avoid losing back-to-back series for the first time this season. Chicago has only dropped three series so far, including a three-game set against the Philadelphia Phillies last weekend.

"As the Chicago Cubs, we have a target on our backs," right-hander Jameson Taillon acknowledged. "Teams enjoy playing against us and want to beat us. We can't afford to let our guard down."

Dansby Swanson is one player who is determined to improve his offensive performance. The shortstop had his first three-hit game of the season on Wednesday, but his slash line still stands at .203/.256/.382 through 31 games.

"It's always satisfying to get hits," Swanson commented. "You can never take them for granted. But being able to solidify my work and gain some clarity in my approach can go a long way. It gives me the confidence to compete and let the results speak for themselves."

Right-hander Colin Rea (1-0, 0.96 ERA) will take the mound for the Cubs, coming off a six-inning scoreless performance in a win against the Phillies last Friday. In seven career appearances (five starts) against the Pirates, he holds a record of 2-3 with a 6.52 ERA.

The teams will return to the field after a frightening incident during Wednesday's game. In the seventh inning, a fan fell from the right field stands onto the warning track. Medical personnel attended to the man and transported him to the hospital in critical condition.

Pittsburgh's Andrew McCutchen was running to second base when the incident occurred.

McCutchen later tweeted, "I am deeply saddened by what happened tonight. My thoughts are with the man, his family, and friends. I pray for his recovery. Let's remember his loved ones and hold our families a little tighter tonight. I hope he pulls through. God bless you all. Good night."

PREDICTION

Chicago Cubs

3

5

Pittsburgh Pirates

Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Recap MAY 12TH 2024