Friday’s series opener will be broadcast locally on Marquee Sports Network (Cubs feed) and SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pirates feed). First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Pittsburgh Pirates (7-5) and Chicago Cubs (6-6) set the stage for a classic NL Central battle as they kick off a three-game series at historic Wrigley Field this Friday afternoon. Pittsburgh has been one of the league's early surprises, leaning on a high-contact offense and a resilient bullpen. They travel to Chicago coming off a hard-fought series against the Padres, where new faces like Nick Yorke have already begun to make an impact.

The Cubs return home after a grueling road trip through Tampa, looking to ignite the "Friendly Confines" crowd. While the rotation has taken some hits with injuries to young arms, veteran leadership from Jameson Taillon and Ian Happ remains the backbone of the club. Expect a tactical, small-ball approach from both sides in the afternoon winds of Chicago. Catch every strikeout and Ivy-bound fly ball live on Fubo.

The pitching duel features two right-handers looking to stabilize their early-season numbers. The Pirates turn to Carmen Mlodzinski (RHP), who has shown flashes of dominance with a 4.00 ERA and high strikeout potential. He faces the Cubs' Shota Imanaga (LHP), who is looking to bounce back after a tough road outing. You can witness this divisional clash streaming live on Fubo.

The key storyline for Pittsburgh will be the integration of young talent; prospect Konnor Griffin recently inked a massive extension, signaling a new era of Pirates baseball. For Chicago, monitoring the health of Ian Happ (bruised heel) will be critical, as the lineup relies heavily on his on-base ability. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Pirates vs. Cubs Betting Odds & Predictions

The Cubs enter the series opener as slight home favorites. Oddsmakers are banking on the Wrigley Field advantage and Imanaga's ability to navigate a lineup that has struggled slightly against high-quality left-handed pitching.

Prediction: Wrigley Field afternoons often favor the pitchers if the wind is blowing in. Expect a low-scoring affair where Chicago’s veteran bullpen secures a close victory. Final Score: Cubs 4, Pirates 3.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the elite athleticism of Konnor Griffin against the deceptive delivery of Shota Imanaga. Griffin’s ability to handle the breaking ball will be a major test for the rookie.

*Stats from recent series.

Chicago relies on the high-contact bat of Nico Hoerner and the veteran presence of Ian Happ to anchor an offense that ranks in the top half of the National League for runs scored.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

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

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Pirates as they aim for the NL Central crown.

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