Cubs vs Pirates: 10 Best Epic Highlights in 2025

Why Cubs vs Pirates Remains Must-Watch Baseball

The cubs vs pirates rivalry brings consistent drama to the NL Central, and the 2024-25 seasons have delivered everything fans expect from this divisional matchup.

Quick Cubs vs Pirates Update:

2025 Season Series: Cubs lead 4-3 in head-to-head matchups
Last Game: Cubs won 3-2 in 10 innings (June 15, 2025)
Biggest Blowout: Cubs shut out Pirates 9-0 at PNC Park (April 29, 2025)
Key Pitching Matchup: Paul Skenes (2.25 ERA vs Cubs) vs Colin Rea (0.96 ERA in 2025)
Offensive Edge: Cubs average 4.75 runs per game vs Pirates’ 3.65

This NL Central rivalry has produced walk-off heroics, extra-inning thrillers, and dominant pitching performances throughout both seasons. Ian Happ’s clutch hitting at PNC Park (.295 average in 57 career games there) and Paul Skenes’ strikeout dominance (30 K’s in 4 starts vs Cubs) highlight the individual battles within the team matchup.

The stakes matter beyond bragging rights. With the Cubs fighting for playoff position and the Pirates building around young talent like Skenes and Oneil Cruz, every game shapes both franchises’ futures.

Whether you’re tracking fantasy baseball, following betting lines, or just love good baseball, these teams consistently deliver competitive games that often come down to the final inning.

Focus Keyphrase

The cubs vs pirates matchup represents one of the most compelling divisional rivalries in the National League Central, consistently delivering dramatic finishes and showcase performances from both established stars and emerging talent.

Rivalry Snapshot: Cubs vs Pirates 2024-25

The cubs vs pirates matchup tells a fascinating story of two teams on completely different paths, yet somehow managing to create pure baseball magic every time they meet. It’s like watching your rebuilding little brother suddenly start winning family ping-pong games – surprising, but undeniably entertaining.

Throughout the 2024-25 seasons, we’ve seen Chicago chasing playoff dreams while Pittsburgh builds around their exciting young core. The beauty? Their games don’t care about organizational timelines or payroll differences.

The 2024 season series was a perfectly balanced affair, with both teams trading memorable victories. The Cubs’ commanding 7-2 win on May 10 looked like typical divisional dominance, until Pittsburgh fired back with that wild 10-9 comeback the very next day. That’s cubs vs pirates baseball in a nutshell – expect the unexpected.

Fast forward to 2025, and the Cubs have grabbed a 4-3 series lead through seven matchups. But those numbers don’t tell the whole story of how competitive these games have been.

The standings paint a clear picture of where each franchise sits. Chicago entered recent series action at 18-13, leading the NL Central, while Pittsburgh struggled at 12-19 in fifth place. Yet somehow, when these teams step between the lines, those records seem to matter less and less.

Why the Matchup Still Matters

Don’t let Pittsburgh’s rebuilding status fool you – every cubs vs pirates game carries serious weight for both clubs. For the Cubs, these are must-win divisional games that could determine whether they’re playing October baseball or watching from home.

Chicago’s 42-28 home record in 2024 showed just how dominant they can be at Wrigley Field. Those home games against Pittsburgh become even more crucial when you’re fighting for playoff positioning in a competitive NL Central.

For the Pirates, these matchups serve as the ultimate test for their young talent. When Paul Skenes takes the mound against a playoff-contending lineup, or when Oneil Cruz steps into the box in a pressure situation, these are the moments that show whether Pittsburgh’s future is as bright as promised.

The fan energy remains incredible regardless of standings. That 40,162 crowd that packed Wrigley for the June 15 extra-inning thriller proves this rivalry still gets people excited. The media buzz around individual storylines – especially anything involving Skenes – generates attention that goes far beyond typical rebuilding-team coverage.

Cubs vs Pirates Momentum Meter

Here’s where things get really interesting. The Cubs have been terrible in extra innings, going 1-3 in such games during 2024. Meanwhile, the Pirates were absolutely perfect at 4-0 in extra-inning contests.

That trend made their June 15 meeting particularly nerve-wracking for Cubs fans. Thankfully for Chicago, they finally broke through with that 3-2 victory in 10 innings, snapping their extra-inning struggles in dramatic fashion.

The offensive numbers show a clear Cubs advantage. Chicago’s 4.75 runs per game significantly outpaces Pittsburgh’s 3.65 average. Yet these games stay close because Pittsburgh’s pitching staff has genuinely improved. The Cubs’ 4.05 team ERA barely edges Pittsburgh’s 4.11, creating the perfect recipe for those nail-biting finishes we’ve come to expect.

Recent form heading into their latest series? Both teams were 2-3 over their last five games. It’s almost like these franchises are destined to meet on equal ground, regardless of their different organizational phases.

2024 vs 2025 Records Comparison
Cubs 2024: 83-79 (3rd NL Central)
Cubs 2025: 18-13 (1st NL Central)
Pirates 2024: 76-86 (4th NL Central)
Pirates 2025: 12-19 (5th NL Central)

Cubs vs Pirates Head-to-Head Highlights

Nothing beats a great baseball story, and the cubs vs pirates rivalry has delivered some absolute gems in recent seasons. Let’s explore the moments that had fans jumping out of their seats.

The Cubs’ April 29, 2025 performance at PNC Park was pure dominance. That 9-0 shutout wasn’t just a win – it was a statement game where everything clicked perfectly. Chicago’s offense exploded while their pitching staff completely silenced Pittsburgh’s bats. Sometimes baseball isn’t close, and this was one of those nights where the Cubs reminded everyone why they’re contending.

But if you want drama, look no further than June 15, 2025. Ian Happ’s walk-off heroics in the 10th inning gave the Cubs a thrilling 3-2 victory that left 40,162 fans at Wrigley Field absolutely electric. This wasn’t just any walk-off – it was the kind of clutch hit that defines careers and creates lasting memories.

The pitching in that June thriller was spectacular on both sides. Colin Rea delivered six strong innings for Chicago, while Mitch Keller matched him pitch for pitch for Pittsburgh. These are the duels that make baseball beautiful – two talented pitchers refusing to give an inch.

Defense has stolen the show multiple times in this rivalry. Oneil Cruz’s spectacular relay throw to nail a runner at home plate showcased the athletic brilliance that makes these games special. When Cruz releasees that cannon arm from shortstop, even Cubs fans have to appreciate the artistry.

Let’s not forget the May 18, 2024 masterpiece – a 1-0 Cubs victory that epitomized old-school baseball. Christopher Morel’s clutch ninth-inning RBI single was the only offense needed in a game where Brandon Falter threw 7.2 scoreless innings. These pitching duels remind us why baseball purists love the sport.

Game-Changing Moments in 2025

Extra innings have become the cubs vs pirates specialty, and 2025 has delivered some nail-biters. The bullpen chess matches get intense when managers start deploying their best relievers. Every pitch matters when the game stretches beyond nine innings.

David Bednar’s save opportunities for Pittsburgh create edge-of-your-seat moments. When Bednar takes the mound in late innings, Pirates fans know they’re watching one of baseball’s elite closers work his magic. The Cubs have had their own closer situations that kept fans guessing until the final out.

Pittsburgh’s speed game has created several momentum-shifting moments. Oneil Cruz’s 25 stolen bases include some crucial swipes against Chicago that changed entire innings. Meanwhile, Ian Happ’s four steals show the Cubs can manufacture runs when the long ball isn’t falling.

The starting pitcher duels have been appointment television. Colin Rea’s incredible 0.96 ERA through his first 18.2 innings of 2025 included some dominant performances against Pittsburgh. On the other side, Paul Skenes has consistently challenged Cubs hitters with elite stuff that makes every at-bat feel like a battle.

Star Performers to Know in Cubs vs Pirates

Paul Skenes has quickly become the name Cubs fans love to hate. His 2.25 ERA with 30 strikeouts in four career starts against Chicago establishes him as the Pirates’ ace and Chicago’s primary nemesis. When Skenes takes the mound, you know you’re watching special talent.

Ian Happ absolutely owns PNC Park, and Pirates fans probably have nightmares about his clutch hitting. His .295 average in 57 career games there isn’t just good – it’s remarkably consistent excellence. Happ seems to save his biggest moments for Pittsburgh.

Nico Hoerner brings steady production that Cubs fans can count on. His .295 batting average with a .339 on-base percentage in 2025 makes him a constant threat atop Chicago’s lineup. Hoerner doesn’t always grab headlines, but he consistently creates scoring opportunities.

Oneil Cruz brings pure athleticism to every cubs vs pirates matchup. His eight home runs and 16 RBIs through early May 2025 showcase offensive potential that can change games instantly. Add in his defensive range at shortstop, and Cruz creates highlight-reel moments regularly.

Don’t sleep on Seiya Suzuki and Cody Bellinger for the Cubs either. Both bring veteran presence and clutch ability that shows up in big divisional games like these.

Advanced Stat Breakdown & Starting Pitcher Duel

When you dig into the numbers behind the cubs vs pirates rivalry, the story becomes even more compelling. The Cubs’ powerful .713 team OPS against Pirates pitching tells you they should dominate, but Pittsburgh’s scrappy .643 OPS against Chicago somehow keeps these games nail-bitingly close.

It’s the little things that make the difference. The Cubs average 4.75 runs per game while the Pirates manage just 3.65, yet most of their head-to-head battles come down to the final innings. That’s baseball magic right there.

Defensive runs saved paint an interesting picture too. The Pirates’ athletic defense, especially Oneil Cruz’s cannon arm and incredible range, creates outs that don’t show up in the box score. Meanwhile, the Cubs rely on steady, fundamentally sound defense from players like Nico Hoerner to keep their pitchers in rhythm.

The stolen base game adds serious strategic wrinkles. Pittsburgh’s aggressive baserunning forces Cubs pitchers to work faster and catchers to stay alert. When Cruz swipes second base, it changes the entire dynamic of an at-bat.

Pitching Edge: Skenes vs Cubs Lineup

Paul Skenes has become the Cubs’ worst nightmare, and his 2.25 ERA with 30 strikeouts in just four starts against them proves it. His slider is absolutely filthy against Chicago’s right-handed heavy lineup, generating whiff rates that would make any pitcher jealous.

The handedness splits tell the real story here. Most young pitchers struggle against opposite-handed hitters, but Skenes attacks both lefties and righties with equal confidence. That’s what makes him so dangerous in this rivalry.

What’s really impressive is how he sequences his pitches against familiar Cubs hitters. Even veterans like Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki can’t seem to time him up. His four-seam fastball sets up that devastating slider perfectly, and his pitch sequencing shows maturity way beyond his years.

Batting Tale of the Tape

The offensive numbers should tell a simple story – Chicago’s 4.75 runs per game versus Pittsburgh’s 3.65 means Cubs wins, right? Not so fast. These cubs vs pirates games have their own special intensity that throws season stats out the window.

Clutch hitting becomes everything when these teams meet. The Cubs have shown they can deliver in high-pressure moments, like that incredible June 15th walk-off. The Pirates, despite their individual talent, sometimes struggle to string together hits when it matters most.

Road versus home splits create fascinating advantages. Ian Happ absolutely rakes at PNC Park with his .295 average in 57 career games there – it’s like he owns the place. Meanwhile, Wrigley Field’s unique conditions and atmosphere give the Cubs their own edge when hosting Pittsburgh.

Latest research on historical box scores

Thanks to comprehensive Retrosheet data spanning from 1901 to the present, we can see how today’s Cubs-Pirates battles fit into the bigger picture. The historical context makes current performances even more meaningful when you can compare them to franchise legends.

This treasure trove of data helps us understand whether Paul Skenes’ dominance over the Cubs ranks among the best individual rivalries in franchise history. Spoiler alert: it’s looking pretty special so far.

Storylines, Injuries & Playoff Stakes

Injury management has become a crucial factor in recent cubs vs pirates matchups. Both teams have steerd key players spending time on the injured list, forcing depth players into prominent roles during critical games.

The Pirates’ youth movement creates compelling storylines as prospects get opportunities in meaningful games. These developmental experiences against quality competition like the Cubs provide valuable learning opportunities for Pittsburgh’s future core.

Chicago’s playoff positioning makes every divisional game crucial. Their pursuit of NL Wild Card positioning or divisional supremacy means these Pirates games carry significant postseason implications, adding pressure to each contest.

Paul Skenes’ workload management has become a major storyline as the Pirates balance his immediate impact with long-term development. His pitch counts in Cubs games reflect this careful approach, with early exits despite strong performances protecting his future.

The Cubs’ bullpen evolution continues generating attention as they seek reliable late-inning options. Their struggles in extra innings (1-3 record in 2024) highlight the importance of bullpen depth in close divisional games.

Pittsburgh’s youth movement extends beyond Skenes, with players like Oneil Cruz establishing themselves as franchise cornerstones. Their development against quality opponents like Chicago serves as a barometer for the organization’s progress.

Key Players on the Mend

Injury list updates significantly impact series dynamics, as both teams rely on specific players for success in this rivalry. The depth chart shifts create opportunities for role players to make names for themselves in high-profile games.

Expected returns from injured players can swing series momentum, making injury reports essential reading for fans following the cubs vs pirates rivalry closely.

How to Follow, Stream & Bet on Cubs vs Pirates

Getting your cubs vs pirates fix has become incredibly straightforward, whether you’re a traditionalist who loves television broadcasts or a cord-cutter embracing streaming platforms. Regional sports networks continue delivering comprehensive coverage with expert commentary that captures every nuance of this divisional rivalry.

The scheduling gods have been kind to fans, with most games landing in prime viewing windows. Those leisurely 2:20 PM weekend starts have become perfect for family baseball afternoons, while weeknight games typically begin around 7:05 PM – ideal for settling in after dinner to watch Paul Skenes battle Ian Happ.

Here’s where things get interesting for ticket hunters: Wrigley Field transforms into Fort Knox whenever Skenes is scheduled to pitch against the Cubs. Those games sell out faster than you can say “slider,” making advance planning essential. PNC Park offers a more relaxed ticket experience with better pricing, plus you get those stunning Pittsburgh skyline views as a bonus.

Tickets PreviewTickets provides reliable access to both venues, though checking multiple sources often reveals better deals for last-minute planners.

Streaming & Radio Guide

The streaming landscape continues evolving rapidly, and our comprehensive guide on How to Stream Sports in 2025: Platforms, Prices, Tips breaks down every option available for catching cubs vs pirates action. The tricky part? Those pesky blackout rules that can leave local fans scrambling for alternatives.

Regional sports networks maintain their grip on primary broadcast rights, though ESPN occasionally swoops in for nationally televised games when the storylines get too juicy to ignore. Picture this: Skenes throwing 98 mph fastballs past Seiya Suzuki under the lights at Wrigley – that’s prime-time television gold.

Radio broadcasts deserve special mention here. Both teams’ flagship stations deliver play-by-play coverage that captures details television sometimes misses. There’s something magical about listening to a cubs vs pirates extra-inning thriller on radio while driving through Chicago or Pittsburgh neighborhoods where the rivalry runs deepest.

Smart Betting Tips for Cubs vs Pirates

Understanding betting lines starts with grasping the basics, which our Sports Betting Odds Explained guide covers thoroughly. The Cubs typically enter as favorites given their superior record, but this rivalry’s competitive nature creates fascinating value opportunities for sharp bettors.

Moneyline movements tell interesting stories about public perception versus reality. The Pirates consistently play Chicago tough despite struggling records, creating situations where savvy bettors find value backing Pittsburgh as underdogs.

Over/under totals hovering around 7.5 runs reflect recent trends toward lower-scoring affairs between these teams. Strong starting pitching from both sides, combined with strategic bullpen usage, has made the under a profitable play more often than casual fans expect.

The extra-inning trends present perhaps the most intriguing betting angle. Pittsburgh’s perfect 4-0 record in extra frames during 2024 contrasted sharply with Chicago’s 1-3 mark, though the Cubs finally broke through with that thrilling June 15 victory. Smart bettors watch for games trending toward extra innings and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cubs vs Pirates

How have the Cubs and Pirates split the 2025 season series so far?

The cubs vs pirates series has been tightly contested through 2025, with Chicago holding a 4-3 edge in their first seven meetings. While this might suggest Cubs dominance, the reality tells a more nuanced story of competitive baseball that’s kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Chicago’s series lead comes from a mix of dominant performances and nail-biting finishes. Their 9-0 shutout victory at PNC Park on April 29 showed what happens when everything clicks for the Cubs, while their 3-2 extra-inning thriller on June 15 at Wrigley demonstrated their ability to win the close ones.

The Pirates haven’t rolled over, though. Their victories have come through gutsy performances that showcase their young talent stepping up in big moments. Pittsburgh’s ability to stay competitive despite their rebuilding phase speaks volumes about their emerging core and improved pitching staff.

What makes this series split particularly interesting is how it contrasts with the teams’ overall records. The Cubs entered recent matchups sitting first in the NL Central at 18-13, while Pittsburgh struggled at 12-19. Yet when these teams face each other, records seem to matter less than execution in crucial moments.

Which starting pitchers have dominated this rivalry recently?

Paul Skenes has absolutely owned Cubs hitters since joining the Pirates rotation. His 2.25 ERA with 30 strikeouts in four career starts against Chicago makes him appointment television whenever he takes the mound at Wrigley or PNC Park.

What makes Skenes so effective against the Cubs isn’t just his blazing fastball – it’s his devastating slider that consistently gets Cubs hitters chasing out of the zone. His pitch sequencing shows remarkable maturity for a young pitcher, keeping even veteran Cubs batters guessing throughout their at-bats.

On the Cubs side, Colin Rea has emerged as Pittsburgh’s nightmare. His microscopic 0.96 ERA through 18.2 innings in 2025 against the Pirates shows what happens when a pitcher finds his groove against familiar opponents. Rea’s ability to change speeds and hit his spots has consistently frustrated Pirates hitters who struggle to time his offerings.

Mitch Keller provides steady excellence for Pittsburgh, regularly giving his team six quality innings that keep games close. His consistency allows the Pirates to stay competitive even when their offense struggles to generate runs.

The most memorable individual performance might belong to Brandon Falter, whose 7.2 scoreless innings in that tense 1-0 Cubs victory showcased how pitchers can lift their games when divisional bragging rights are on the line.

What is the best way to get last-minute tickets for Cubs vs Pirates games?

Getting into cubs vs pirates games requires different strategies depending on which ballpark you’re targeting. Wrigley Field presents the bigger challenge – Cubs games typically sell out quickly, especially when Paul Skenes is scheduled to pitch for Pittsburgh.

Your best bet for Cubs home games is monitoring official MLB ticketing throughout the day of the game. Sometimes tickets become available as season ticket holders release seats they can’t use.

PNC Park offers much better last-minute opportunities. Pittsburgh’s beautiful ballpark rarely sells out, and weekday games often have excellent availability right up until first pitch. The Pirates’ reasonable pricing makes spontaneous baseball trips very affordable.

Mobile ticketing has revolutionized last-minute purchases. You can literally buy tickets while walking to the stadium and have them ready on your phone by the time you reach the gates. No more worrying about ticket pickup windows or will-call lines.

Here’s a pro tip: pitching matchups dramatically affect ticket prices. When Skenes faces the Cubs, prices spike across all seating sections. But if he’s not pitching, you might find great deals even for premium seats.

Price fluctuations work in your favor if you’re flexible about timing. Secondary market prices often drop as game time approaches, especially for weekday contests. Just remember that sometimes waiting too long means missing out entirely – particularly for those rare Cubs-Pirates weekend series at Wrigley.

Conclusion

The cubs vs pirates rivalry proves that great baseball doesn’t always need playoff implications to capture our hearts. These two teams have crafted something special – a divisional matchup where young stars shine and veteran savvy meets raw talent in the most entertaining ways.

Paul Skenes has become the face of Pittsburgh’s future, and watching him duel against Chicago’s lineup feels like witnessing baseball history in the making. His 2.25 ERA against the Cubs isn’t just a number – it’s the foundation of what could be a decade-long rivalry between him and Chicago’s best hitters.

Meanwhile, Ian Happ’s love affair with PNC Park continues to amaze. His .295 average there over 57 games tells the story of a player who simply lifts his game when facing the Pirates. These individual storylines weave together to create compelling theater every time these teams meet.

The beauty of this rivalry lies in its unpredictability. The Cubs might have the better record, but those extra-inning battles and one-run games remind us that cubs vs pirates matchups have their own special rules. The Pirates’ perfect 4-0 extra-inning record in 2024 while the Cubs struggled at 1-3 shows how different these teams become when the stakes are highest.

Looking toward the future, we’re watching the early chapters of what could be a defining rivalry for both franchises. Oneil Cruz’s athletic brilliance and the Cubs’ playoff hunger create the perfect storm for memorable baseball moments. The competitive balance we’ve seen – despite different organizational goals – suggests these games will continue delivering drama for years to come.

Whether you’re tracking fantasy stats, following betting lines, or simply love watching two teams that refuse to give each other easy wins, this matchup consistently rewards your attention. Every cubs vs pirates game feels like it could produce the highlight that defines someone’s season.

At Sports News 4 You, we’ll keep bringing you the inside stories, statistical insights, and game breakdowns that make this rivalry special. Because in a sport where individual moments can define entire seasons, the Cubs and Pirates keep giving us plenty to talk about.

Cubs vs Pirates: 10 Best Epic Highlights in 2025