Tampa Bay Rays vs Chicago Cubs Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 09/12/25

The Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago Cubs open a 3-game series, and we’ve got your prediction right here! The Cubs are still fighting for the NL Central crown, making this a series they need to capitalize on to keep their chances alive. As for the Rays, they sit 6.5 games out of the final AL Wild Card spot, and their postseason hopes are fading fast.  

Shane Baz takes the mound for the Rays, entering with a 9-11 record and a 4.94 ERA. Despite his struggles overall, Baz has shown improvement recently, posting a 2.65 ERA over his last 3 starts. For the Cubs, the left-hander, Matthew Boyd will get the nod, entering with a 12-8 record and 2.92 ERA. Neither offense has been lighting up the scoreboard, with the Rays averaging 4.4 runs per game in their last 10 compared to the Cubs 4.2. The Rays are batting just .232 against lefties this season, and I expect them to struggle in this matchup against Boyd. Look for the Cubs to open this series with a win as they’re the better team and have the advantage on the mound with Boyd.

Rays vs Cubs prediction: Cubs ML (-165) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.

You can bet on our Rays vs Cubs pick with BetMGM, where right now new users can activate your new BetMGM account ⚡ and receive $150 in bonus bets INSTANTLY if your first $10+ wager is a winner!