Chicago Cubs vs Atlanta Braves Picks and Predictions, September 3rd, 2025

Braves vs. Cubs Prediction: Horton and Chicago Aim to Stay Hot at Wrigley

The Atlanta Braves head to Wrigley Field for a night matchup against the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. First pitch is set for 7:40 PM ET.

Atlanta (62-77) is slumping, sitting fourth in the NL East after dropping its last two games. Chicago (80-59) holds second place in the NL Central and carries momentum with back-to-back wins.

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Matchup Overview

• Venue: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
• Date: Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025 – 7:40 PM ET
• Probable Starters: Bryce Elder (ATL) vs. Cade Horton (CHC)
• Betting Odds: Braves ML +131, Cubs ML -155, Runline ATL +1.5 (-160) / CHC -1.5 (+134), Total 8.5 (O -111 / U -109)

The Braves Can Win If…

Atlanta showed some pop in its 4-3 loss to Chicago on Monday, with Ozzie Albies and Eli White each going deep. Joey Wentz also struck out eight over four innings, showing the rotation has arms that can miss bats.

Offensively, the Braves remain dangerous. They rank 7th in on-base percentage (.319) and 3rd in walks (498), demonstrating patience and the ability to extend innings. Matt Olson (21 HR, .269 BA) and Ronald Acuña Jr. provide consistent production, and if Elder (5.85 ERA, 1.48 WHIP) can limit early damage, Atlanta’s lineup has the tools to put runs on the board.

For more expert insight, check today’s MLB Picks to see how handicappers are playing this NL clash.

The Cubs Can Win If…

The Cubs come in riding momentum after Monday’s 4-3 win, led by Kyle Tucker’s home run and three RBIs. Their lineup has been a difference-maker all season, ranking 6th in home runs (189) and 3rd in stolen bases (138).

On the hill, Cade Horton (2.92 ERA, 9-4 record) gives Chicago a steady edge. Backed by a pitching staff that ranks 8th in ERA (3.88), the Cubs have the balance to outlast Atlanta. With hitters like Seiya Suzuki and Pete Crow-Armstrong adding power and speed, Chicago looks primed for another strong showing.

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Betting Outlook

The Cubs enter as -155 favorites, and projections point in their direction. My model calls for a 5-3 Cubs victory, with their edge in both pitching and slugging too much for Atlanta to match.

At a total of 8.5, the lean is toward the under (-109). Chicago’s pitching is top-10, while Atlanta’s staff (21st in ERA) may give up some runs, but Horton’s command should keep scoring in check.

If you’re betting the board, don’t miss the MLB Expert Betting Guide for strategies and key trends.