Pirates, Cubs Set for Afternoon Rematch at Wrigley

CHICAGO (Interstat) — The Pittsburgh Pirates look to secure a series win when they face the Chicago Cubs in an afternoon game at Wrigley Field on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

The Pirates (8-5) took the series opener 2-0 on Friday behind a strong pitching performance. Pittsburgh will turn to right-hander Braxton Ashcraft (1-1) for the second game. The Cubs (6-7), seeking to even the series, are expected to start right-hander Edward Cabrera (1-0).

A key player to watch for Pittsburgh is Carmen Mlodzinski, who earned Friday’s win with 5 1/3 scoreless innings. In his last three starts, he has a 2.45 ERA with 15 strikeouts over 14 1/3 innings.

For Chicago, left-hander Shota Imanaga will be a focus after a hard-luck loss Friday. He threw six no-hit innings with nine strikeouts but received no run support. In his three starts this season, he has a 3.00 ERA despite an 0-3 record, with 20 strikeouts in 16 innings.

The teams’ offenses struggled in the opener, with Bryan Reynolds providing the only runs via a two-run homer for Pittsburgh. The Cubs were shut out for the second time this season.

Weather could be a factor, with game-time temperatures forecast near 50 degrees under cloudy skies.

According to Interstat, the Cubs enter as favorites with a 60.9% win probability and a -1.5 spread. The game simulator, however, projects a 6-3 Pirates victory. The over/under is set at 6.5 runs.

Following Saturday’s contest, the series concludes Sunday before both clubs embark on new series Monday. Pittsburgh hosts Washington, while Chicago travels to Philadelphia.