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Cubs vs Braves Picks and Predictions — September 8, 2025
The Chicago Cubs visit the Atlanta Braves on Monday night at Truist Park, where Atlanta skipper Brian Snitker is chasing career win No. 800. The veteran manager sits at 799 victories, trailing only Bobby Cox and Frank Selee on the Braves’ all-time list.
The Cubs (81-62) are battling for playoff positioning in the NL Central but dropped two of three against Washington over the weekend. The Braves (64-79) are out of contention and have lost seven of their last 10, including a lopsided series against Seattle.
Real Trends. Real Results.
Today’s data-backed predictions await
To see how these clubs have been trending, review the latest MLB game results.
Opening odds: Cubs -130 (moneyline), Braves +110, Total 8.5 runs.
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Cubs Can Win If…
Chicago hands the ball to lefty Shota Imanaga (9-6, 3.15 ERA), who just beat Atlanta last week with six solid innings. He’s posted a 2.45 ERA in two career starts against the Braves, and his command gives the Cubs a clear edge on the mound.
The Cubs’ offense has been powered by depth, ranking sixth in slugging (.428) and seventh in home runs (195). Nico Hoerner continues to provide steady contact hitting, while Carson Kelly’s two-homer game against Washington shows their ability to find production across the lineup.
“All my teammates had my back … countless plays, amazing plays,” Imanaga said after his last outing.
If Imanaga controls the Braves’ lineup and the bats capitalize on Bryce Elder’s mistakes, Chicago can take the opener.
Braves Can Win If…
Atlanta turns to Bryce Elder (6-9, 5.54 ERA), who’s been much sharper recently, posting a 1.35 ERA across his last three starts. He beat the Cubs just last week with seven strong innings, giving up only an unearned run.
Offensively, the Braves need Ronald Acuña Jr. to break out of his slump. He’s hitless in his last 25 at-bats, the longest drought of his career. Matt Olson (22 HR, 79 RBI) and Ozzie Albies must pick up the slack if Acuña can’t get going.
“Now I’ve been making pitches like I was and I’m getting some breaks … I’m happy about being able to go seven again,” Elder said.
If Elder stays efficient and the lineup strings together timely hits, Atlanta can deliver Snitker his milestone win.
Key MLB Betting Trends
| Category | Cubs | Braves |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 81-62 (2nd NL Central) | 64-79 (4th NL East) |
| Last 10 Games | 5-5 | 3-7 |
| Runs Per Game | 4.8 | 4.4 |
| ERA / Opp Runs | 3.92 ERA (9th MLB) | 4.72 ERA (23rd MLB) |
| Season Series 2025 | Cubs lead 2-1 | Braves trail 1-2 |
The Lean
Model Projection: Cubs 5, Braves 4
Pick: Cubs Moneyline (-130)
Total Lean: Over 8.5
Chicago’s stronger lineup and Imanaga’s consistency tilt this matchup their way, though Elder’s recent form suggests the Braves won’t go quietly. Expect enough offense from both sides to push this game over the total. Keep pace with more MLB Score Predictions throughout the playoff chase.
September baseball is here — playoff races are heating up. Explore more expert picks here →
