Wednesday’s series finale will be broadcast locally on Marquee Sports Network (Cubs feed) and Rays.TV / Bally Sports Sun (Rays feed). First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Chicago Cubs (5-6) are looking to right the ship at Tropicana Field this Wednesday, April 8, against the Tampa Bay Rays (5-6). Both teams entered this series with identical records, making this finale a critical pivot point for their early-season momentum. After a hard-fought opening game that saw the Rays pull ahead with late-inning power, the Cubs are eager to display the offensive depth of their new-look 2026 roster. 

Chicago's offense is headlined by Nico Hoerner, who has been a spark plug at the top of the lineup, and off-season addition Alex Bregman, who is looking to break out after a steady start. For Tampa Bay, the focus remains on their explosive young core, including Junior Caminero and Jonathan Aranda, both of whom have already flexed their muscles in this series. Catch every strikeout and home run live on Fubo. 

The pitching matchup features a battle of right-handers looking to establish dominance. The Cubs turn to Colin Rea (RHP), whose 11.4 K/9 rate suggests he has the swing-and-miss stuff to neutralize the Rays' aggressive hitters. Tampa Bay counters with Joe Boyle (RHP), who enters the contest with a stellar 3.18 ERA and a 0.88 WHIP, proving to be a difficult puzzle for opposing batters to solve in the early weeks of 2026.

The key storyline for this matchup is whether the Cubs' bullpen can hold off the Rays' late-inning surges. With Tampa Bay's lineup ranking in the top 10 for runs scored, Rea will need to provide length to protect a Chicago relief corps that has been tested early. Conversely, if Boyle can maintain his elite control, the Rays will be in a prime position to take the series. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Cubs vs. Rays Betting Odds & Predictions

The Rays enter as slight home favorites, largely due to Joe Boyle's dominant early-season metrics and the Cubs' historical struggles at Tropicana Field. The "Over/Under" is set at a relatively low 8 runs, reflecting the high-quality pitching scheduled for the mound.

Prediction: While Colin Rea has the strikeout potential to keep the game close, Joe Boyle’s ability to limit base runners (0.88 WHIP) gives Tampa Bay the edge. Expect a tight, pitcher-dominated contest that favors the home team in the later frames. Final Score: Rays 4, Cubs 2.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The premier matchup features the high-contact approach of Nico Hoerner against the pure power of Joe Boyle. Hoerner's ability to put the ball in play will be vital in rattling Boyle's rhythm.

Tampa Bay relies on Junior Caminero to provide the thump in the middle of the order, supported by the veteran presence and speed of Cedric Mullins.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like Marquee Sports Network and Rays.TV, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Cubs or Rays.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Cubs as they strive to return to the top of the NL Central.

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