Chicago Cubs vs Cincinnati Reds Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 09/19/25

I lean towards a win for the Chicago Cubs on Friday, as they take on the Cincinnati Reds. Chicago is set to start Shota Imanaga for this game, marking his 24th start of the 2025 season. The southpaw hurler has found success with a 3.29 ERA and a WHIP below 1.00 in his 134 innings of work. The Cubs hope he can maintain his form through the postseason, as they look to gear up and make a run at a World Series. Imanaga is my preferred starter in this game, and he gives his team a chance to win each time he takes the mound.

Nick Lodolo allowed 3 home runs in his last start, but still has a solid 3.30 ERA on the season. The Reds southpaw has gone through hot and cold stretches this season, but his overall performance has been strong. He is less focused on the strikeout as compared to previous seasons, but he is still proven as an effective starting option in this league. The issue for this game is his matchup, however, as the Cubs may present issues for Lodolo with their patience and power combination.

Cubs vs Reds prediction: Chicago Cubs ML (-125) available at time of publishing. Playable to -130.

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