Cincinnati Reds vs Chicago Cubs Picks and Predictions May 25th 2025

Reds Turn to Lodolo in Series Finale vs. Cubs

The Cincinnati Reds have a chance to grab momentum in the National League Central on Sunday as they send Nick Lodolo to the mound in the decisive rubber game against the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park.

While the Cubs lead the division and the league in runs scored, Cincinnati is hoping their southpaw can flip the script at home and help secure a series win against a fierce rival.

Lodolo Seeks Home Comfort in Final Game of Series

For Lodolo, pitching at home hasn’t exactly been comforting. The 26-year-old lefty enters Sunday with a 4-4 record and a 3.22 ERA, but his splits tell a more revealing story:

• Home: 1-2, 6.33 ERA
• Away: 3-2, 1.45 ERA

His only win at Great American Ball Park came on March 29 in a tight 3-2 victory over the Giants. Since then, home runs have been a problem—five allowed in 21 1/3 innings at home compared to just one homer in 37 1/3 innings on the road.

Historically, Lodolo hasn’t had an easy time with the Cubs either. He’s 2-2 with a 5.27 ERA across five career starts against Chicago.

Need more pitching stats and matchup data? Visit the MLB Odds Page.

Cubs Counter With Ben Brown

The Cubs will send Ben Brown (3-3, 5.44 ERA) to the hill, hoping the rookie can handle a dangerous Cincinnati lineup. Brown has struggled in his limited experience against the Reds, posting an 0-2 record with an 8.00 ERA in two career starts.

With Chicago trying to keep their division lead intact, they’ll need a strong performance from the right-hander to offset any early Reds fireworks.

Check out Brown’s historical trends on the MLB Picks Page.

Stars Shine in First Two Games of Series

Friday night’s opener was all about offense—specifically Pete Crow-Armstrong, who delivered two home runs, including a grand slam off the right field foul pole in the seventh inning. He finished with six RBIs, powering Chicago to a 13-6 win.

It was a perfect example of the Cubs’ explosive potential—they lead MLB in runs scored (310) and can turn any inning into a rally.

De La Cruz Lifts Reds to Game 2 Victory

On Saturday, it was Elly De La Cruz stealing the spotlight. The electric shortstop went 2-for-3 with a two-run homer and four RBIs, adding his 17th stolen base for good measure.

Manager Terry Francona summed it up perfectly:
“He’s instant runs. Other teams hit home runs. That’s not really how we’re built.”

De La Cruz’s shot into the right field bleachers off Colin Rea opened the scoring and helped Cincinnati mentally rebound from Friday’s late-game collapse.

Find more on breakout players like De La Cruz via the MLB Team Page.

Ride the Hot Streaks

Daily MLB Betting Edges

Get Free Trial

Late Drama Highlights Game 2

Even with a solid lead, Saturday’s win didn’t come easy. The Cubs nearly mounted a comeback in the ninth when Carson Kelly launched a solo homer to make it 6-4. Moments later, Matt Shaw lined a double to left, bringing the tying run to the plate.

But closer Emilio Pagan buckled down, striking out Ian Happ and getting Kyle Tucker to fly out to end the game.

“If we could get the tying run up with Tucker, we’d take that situation,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said postgame. “Pagan made some nice pitches.”

What’s at Stake in Game 3

• For the Reds: Lodolo needs to flip his home woes and give Cincinnati a much-needed divisional win.
• For the Cubs: A victory would mark their fourth straight series win and maintain their two-game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals.

With both teams fighting for positioning in the NL Central, Sunday’s game could have ripple effects as the season grinds into the summer.

Check updated betting angles and props via the MLB Expert Betting Guide.

FAQs

When is the Reds vs Cubs series finale?
Sunday afternoon at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati.

Who is pitching for the Reds?
Left-hander Nick Lodolo (4-4, 3.22 ERA), looking for his first home win since March 29.

Who is starting for the Cubs?
Right-hander Ben Brown (3-3, 5.44 ERA), who has struggled against Cincinnati in past outings.

How did Elly De La Cruz perform in Game 2?
He hit a two-run homer, drove in four runs total, and stole his 17th base of the season.

Why has Lodolo struggled at home?
He’s allowed five homers in 21 1/3 innings at home compared to just one in 37 1/3 on the road.

Where can I find matchup previews and prop picks?
Head to the MLB Picks Page and Expert Guide.