Los Angeles Angels vs Chicago Cubs Picks and Predictions August 23rd 2025

Los Angeles Angels vs Chicago Cubs August 23rd 2025

The Chicago Cubs are heading to Angel Stadium of Anaheim to take on the Los Angeles Angels. The Cubs hold a record of 74-55 and are second in the NL Central. They are coming off a win and have a 6-4 record in their last ten games.

The Angels, with a 61-67 record, sit fourth in the AL West. They lost their last game and are 5-5 in their last ten. The game will be played on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 9:38 PM. Weather conditions are expected to be very hot with a clear sky.

Cubs vs Angels Key Information

• Sport: Baseball
• Teams: Chicago Cubs vs. Los Angeles Angels
• Venue: Angel Stadium of Anaheim in Anaheim, CA
• Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 9:38 PM
• Betting Odds: Cubs Moneyline -147, Angels Moneyline +126, Cubs Runline -1.5 (+106), Angels Runline +1.5 (-127), Total Over 9.5 (-113), Total Under 9.5 (-107)

The Cubs Can Win If…

The Chicago Cubs are coming off a narrow 3-2 win against the Los Angeles Angels. Javier Assad pitched six strong innings, allowing only two hits and one earned run. Kyle Tucker and Pete Crow-Armstrong each hit a home run, showcasing their power at the plate.

The Cubs’ offense ranks 6th in slugging percentage and home runs, making them a threat in any game. With players like Seiya Suzuki and Michael Busch contributing regularly, the lineup has depth. Their ability to hit for power could be the key to winning the next game.

On the mound, Cade Horton will start for the Cubs with a solid ERA of 3.08. This gives the Cubs a strong chance against the Angels’ starter, Victor Mederos, who has struggled with an ERA of 5.54. The Cubs’ pitching staff ranks 10th in ERA, adding to their chances of a win.

The Angels Can Win If…

The Los Angeles Angels are looking to bounce back after a close 3-2 loss against the Chicago Cubs. Yoán Moncada was the standout player, hitting two home runs and driving in two runs. Despite the loss, Tyler Anderson had a solid outing, allowing only two runs over five innings.

The Angels have a strong lineup that ranks fourth in home runs this season with 179. This power can turn the tide in any game. Players like Jo Adell and Taylor Ward have been consistent in delivering home runs and driving in runs, making them key players to watch.

Victor Mederos will start for the Angels, aiming to improve his performance. With the support of a lineup featuring Mike Trout and Nolan Schanuel, the Angels have the potential to score big. The team’s slugging percentage ranks 11th, showing their ability to hit for power and make an impact offensively.

The Lean

The Cubs are favored with a moneyline of -147. The Angels are listed at +126. My model projects the Cubs to win with a score of 6-4. The Cubs have a stronger batting lineup and a better pitching staff, which should give them the edge in this game.

The total for the game is set at 9.5 runs. My model predicts a combined score of 10 runs. Given the Cubs’ powerful offense and the Angels’ pitching struggles, taking the over at 9.5 (-113) seems like a reasonable choice.

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Cubs Snap Power Droughts in Series Opener

The Chicago Cubs opened their three-game series in Anaheim with a timely power surge, defeating the Los Angeles Angels 3-2 on Friday night. Kyle Tucker and Pete Crow-Armstrong both broke out of 25-game homer-less streaks, delivering the decisive swings in the win.

Tucker launched his 19th homer of the season in the first inning off Tyler Anderson, while Crow-Armstrong broke a 2-2 tie with a ninth-inning blast off Kenley Jansen. It was Crow-Armstrong’s 28th of the season as he continues to push toward a potential 30-30 campaign.

Manager Craig Counsell praised the pair for stepping up in key moments, reminding his team that baseball rarely grants favors and every contribution matters. Bettors keeping track of these late-season pushes can stay sharp with the latest MLB picks

Cubs Remain Firm in Wild-Card Hunt

With the win, Chicago maintained its spot as the National League’s top wild-card team, though they remain seven games behind the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. Every victory against teams outside the playoff picture is critical for the Cubs as they look to create breathing room in the postseason race.

Fans can dive deeper into upcoming series analysis and betting opportunities by checking the latest MLB previews

Saturday Night Pitching Matchup

Right-hander Cade Horton (7-4, 3.08 ERA) will take the mound for Chicago, facing the Angels for the first time in his young career. Since the All-Star break, Horton has allowed only two earned runs over 31 innings, producing an eye-popping 0.58 ERA with 27 strikeouts.

However, Horton’s last outing ended early due to a blister on his right middle finger. Despite the setback, he allowed just one run in 2 2/3 innings against the Brewers. His ability to stay healthy and effective could determine Chicago’s series success.

On the other side, rookie Victor Mederos (0-1, 5.54 ERA) will make his third career start. He struggled in his last appearance, surrendering three runs on nine hits in five innings against the Reds. Angels interim manager Ray Montgomery remains encouraged by his development, noting his ability to battle through tough innings. For bettors evaluating pitching matchups, the expert MLB betting guide provides insights into analyzing value plays.

Angels Seek Offense Beyond Moncada

The Angels managed only three hits on Friday, with Yoan Moncada providing both runs via his first multi-homer game since 2022. Beyond Moncada, Los Angeles struggled to generate scoring opportunities, a recurring issue for their offense.

If the Angels cannot find more production up and down the lineup, pressure will mount on their young rotation to deliver near-flawless outings. Baseball bettors tracking underdog scenarios can explore daily game results to spot trends with struggling offenses like the Angels.

Handicapping the Matchup

With Horton pitching at an elite level since the break and the Cubs showing renewed power at the plate, Chicago enters Saturday’s contest as the clear favorite. The Angels’ best chance lies in Moncada’s bat sparking an otherwise quiet lineup and Mederos finding a way to keep Cubs hitters off balance.

For those looking to follow professional betting angles, the best handicappers leaderboard highlights which experts are excelling with MLB picks this season. Those wanting to ride the momentum can also buy premium picks for Saturday’s slate.