Atlanta Braves vs. Chicago Cubs Picks and Predictions September 1st 2025

Braves vs Cubs Picks and Predictions — September 1, 2025

The Atlanta Braves head to Wrigley Field on Monday afternoon to open a three-game series against the Chicago Cubs. Atlanta (62-75) enters after snapping a losing streak with a 3-1 victory over Philadelphia, while Chicago (78-59) returns home following a 6-5 walk-off loss to Colorado.

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The first pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET with Spencer Strider set to start for Atlanta against Cubs right-hander Colin Rea. Oddsmakers list Chicago as a -123 favorite, with Atlanta at +105 on the moneyline and the total sitting at 8. For recent form and historical data, review the latest baseball game results.

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Braves Can Win If…

Spencer Strider builds off his best outing of the season. Strider (5-12, 4.95 ERA) held Miami to one run across seven innings in his last start, showing improved fastball command. Despite finishing August 0-4 with a 10.13 ERA, his velocity and movement looked more like his All-Star form from 2023.

“That was a lot better … Fastball played better,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said of Strider’s last start.

Offensively, Atlanta needs Matt Olson (21 HR, .269 AVG) and Drake Baldwin—who homered in the last game—to deliver timely power. The Braves rank third in MLB in walks, giving them opportunities to create runs with patience at the plate.

Cubs Can Win If…

Colin Rea delivers a steadier performance than in his last outing. Rea (10-6, 4.23 ERA) allowed seven runs against San Francisco but has historically pitched well vs. Atlanta (2-0, 3.60 ERA in 5 career starts). His ability to keep hitters off balance will be key.

“He just wasn’t sharp,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said of Rea’s previous start.

Chicago’s lineup is among the most powerful in baseball, ranking 4th in slugging and 7th in home runs (186). Ian Happ homered and drove in three against Colorado, while Kyle Tucker and Michael Busch provide depth and extra-base pop. If the Cubs’ bats wake up at home, they can overpower Strider.

Key MLB Betting Trends

The Lean

Pick: Cubs Moneyline (-123)
Projected Final Score: Cubs 5, Braves 4
Total Lean: Over 8 (-105)

Chicago’s home-field advantage and superior power numbers make them the safer play here. While Strider looked better in his last outing, his inconsistency combined with Atlanta’s struggles on the road tilt the edge toward the Cubs. Expect both lineups to produce, making the Over a strong lean.

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