Philadelphia Phillies vs Chicago Cubs Picks and Predictions for Thursday April 23 2026
The Philadelphia Phillies travel to face the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois on Thursday, April 23, 2026, with first pitch scheduled for 2:20 PM and coverage available on MLB.TV. At the time of this writing the odds were not released. This matchup features a Phillies team trying to reverse recent struggles against a Cubs squad that has been building strong momentum, particularly at home. For more daily insight, be sure to check out free MLB picks.
Starting Pitchers Outlook
Cristopher Sanchez will start for Philadelphia, entering with a 2-2 record, a 1.59 ERA, and a 1.41 WHIP over 28.1 innings. He has allowed 32 hits while striking out 39 batters and issuing eight walks, with just one home run given up. On the other side, Edward Cabrera takes the mound for Chicago, holding a 2-0 record with a 2.38 ERA and a 1.28 WHIP across 22.2 innings. He has surrendered 18 hits while recording 17 strikeouts and 11 walks, showing a solid but slightly less efficient profile.
Philadelphia Searching for Answers
Philadelphia enters this game with an 8-15 overall record and a 3-5 mark on the road. Their recent stretch has been difficult, as they have recently lost to Chicago twice and also suffered multiple losses to Atlanta, including a shutout defeat. That run highlights a team that has struggled to find consistency, particularly against strong opponents.
From a statistical standpoint, the Phillies have posted a .218 batting average with 80 runs and 168 hits. Their offense has produced 24 home runs, while their on-base percentage sits at .298 and their slugging percentage at .360. On the pitching side, Philadelphia has recorded a 4.99 ERA and a 1.47 WHIP, while allowing opponents to hit .278.
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A key weakness for Philadelphia is their pitching performance, as the 4.99 ERA combined with a .278 opponent batting average suggests difficulty in limiting opposing offenses. That issue has played a major role in their recent struggles.
Chicago Riding a Wave of Success
Chicago comes into this matchup with a 14-9 overall record and a 9-5 record at home. Over their last five games, the Cubs have recently won over Philadelphia twice and also secured victories against New York multiple times, showing a consistent upward trend.
Looking at the numbers, Chicago has posted a .255 batting average with 124 runs and 199 hits. Their offense has delivered 27 home runs along with a .350 on-base percentage and a .404 slugging percentage. On the pitching side, the Cubs have recorded a 3.45 ERA and a 1.15 WHIP, while holding opponents to a .222 batting average.
A major strength for Chicago is their overall balance, particularly their ability to combine solid pitching with consistent offensive production. Their lower ERA and WHIP compared to their opponent provide a strong foundation heading into this game.
Philadelphia Phillies vs Chicago Cubs Picks and Prediction
Philadelphia Phillies vs Chicago Cubs Pick
Pick: Chicago Cubs Moneyline
Chicago enters this matchup with a clear advantage based on recent performance and overall team metrics. Their ability to consistently produce runs while maintaining a lower ERA and WHIP gives them an edge on both sides of the ball. Philadelphia’s struggles, particularly on the mound, have been evident, and those issues could continue against a lineup that has been generating steady offense. With Chicago also playing well at home, the Cubs are in a favorable position to secure another win in this series.
Philadelphia Phillies vs Chicago Cubs Total Pick
Pick: Over 8.5
Both teams have shown the ability to contribute offensively, and Philadelphia’s pitching numbers suggest that runs could be available in this matchup. While Chicago has been more effective on the mound, their offensive production combined with Philadelphia’s struggles creates a scenario where scoring opportunities could add up. I see this game leaning toward a higher total, making the over the stronger play.
Final Score Prediction: Chicago Cubs 6 – Philadelphia Phillies 4
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Wednesday.
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