The Cubs - Pirates series in 2025 brings plenty of excitement for NL Central baseball fans. As two storied franchises in one of MLB’s most competitive divisions, every matchup matters not only for pride but also for keeping postseason hopes alive. Let’s dive into this week’s key storylines, standout players, pitching matchups, and insights you need to know.

Cubs - Pirates: Series Overview

This marks the Chicago Cubs' first divisional test of the 2025 season. Until this point, the Cubs have played 29 games without facing NL Central competition. According to Bleed Cubbie Blue's series preview, Chicago dominated the Pirates in 2024, winning seven out of 13 games and holding a strong historical record against Pittsburgh. The Cubs have played more games against the Pirates than any other opponent in franchise history.

For the Pirates, this series is an opportunity to climb out of the NL Central’s bottom spot. Despite a 3-3 road trip in Los Angeles, the Pirates return home with hope and determination. Pittsburgh's offense, led by emerging star Oneil Cruz, aims to rebound and challenge one of the league's most potent lineups.

Key Players to Watch

Cubs: Offensive Powerhouse

The Cubs boast one of the league’s top offenses. All nine starters recorded a hit in the first game of the series—an impressive feat last achieved in 2013. Seiya Suzuki stood out, blasting a homer and coming within a single of the cycle. Veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd, who joined Chicago for their strong defense and bats, enjoys solid run support this year. The lineup’s depth makes them a threat in every inning.

Pirates: Looking for Consistency

For Pittsburgh, Oneil Cruz is living up to superstar potential. He has already hit four leadoff homers in April, a franchise record, and adds speed with 12 stolen bases. Andrew McCutchen remains a steadying veteran presence, but the team overall has struggled to find consistent bats outside this duo.

Carmen Mlodzinski, promoted from the bullpen as a result of injuries to the rotation, is set for a significant start. The Deadspin matchup breakdown points out the Pirates' offensive struggles, with a team batting average much lower than the Cubs.

Pitching Matchups and Game Details

Pitching is one of the most intriguing aspects of this Cubs - Pirates series:

• Game 1: Shōta Imanaga (Cubs) vs. Andrew Heaney (Pirates)
• Game 2: Matthew Boyd (Cubs) vs. Carmen Mlodzinski (Pirates)
• Game 3: Colin Rea (Cubs) vs. Paul Skenes (Pirates)

The Pirates are hoping Paul Skenes can continue his impressive start, boasting a 2.39 ERA and 39 strikeouts in under 38 innings. For Chicago, Boyd brings experience and a recent track record of success. Both rotations are impacted by injuries and bullpen promotions. This gives the edge to whichever team can adjust on the fly.

For more game-specific betting trends and pitcher details, check the NBC Sports preview and stats.

What to Watch in the Series

• Can the Pirates disrupt the Cubs’ explosive offense at home?
• Will Oneil Cruz stay hot and drive the Pirates’ scoring?
• How will the Pirates’ pitching staff, led by Mlodzinski and Paul Skenes, handle Chicago’s deep lineup?
• Can Matthew Boyd overcome his struggles against the Pirates?

Both teams have something to prove. For Chicago, it’s about asserting dominance in the division. For Pittsburgh, it’s an early chance to turn the season around before May ends.

Conclusion

The 2025 Cubs - Pirates series promises exciting baseball and plenty of storylines for fans to enjoy. The Cubs enter with momentum and history on their side. The Pirates, led by young stars and strong arms, have the tools for an upset. Every pitch will matter as these NL Central rivals clash at PNC Park.

Stay tuned for the action, and don’t forget to catch every highlight as the season heats up!