Pirates Visit Cubs to Begin 3-Game Series

Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs open a weekend series at Wrigley Field.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:03am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs, with sharp planes of color representing the players and field of play.A cubist interpretation of the upcoming Pirates-Cubs series captures the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of this NL Central matchup.Chicago Today

The Pittsburgh Pirates (7-5) will visit the Chicago Cubs (6-6) on Friday to begin a 3-game series at Wrigley Field. The Pirates are in third place in the NL Central, while the Cubs are fifth in the division. The teams have not yet faced each other this season.

Why it matters

This early-season series between NL Central rivals could provide an early indication of how the division race may unfold. Both teams are looking to gain ground in the standings and establish themselves as contenders.

The details

The Pirates will send right-hander Carmen Mlodzinski (0-0, 4.00 ERA) to the mound, while the Cubs will counter with righty Shota Imanaga (0-1, 4.50 ERA). The Cubs are favored at home, listed at -152 on the moneyline, with the Pirates at +127. The over/under for the game is set at 6.5 runs.

  • The 3-game series begins on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 2:20 p.m. EDT.

The players

Carmen Mlodzinski

Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher with a 4.00 ERA and 1.56 WHIP in his first start of the season.

Shota Imanaga

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher with a 4.50 ERA and 1.20 WHIP in his first start of the season.

Ian Happ

Chicago Cubs outfielder who has 2 doubles, 4 home runs and 7 RBIs while batting .200 this season.

Nico Hoerner

Chicago Cubs infielder who is 13-for-35 with 5 doubles and a home run over the last 10 games.

Ryan O'Hearn

Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman who has 2 doubles and 3 home runs this season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The teams will continue their 3-game series on Saturday and Sunday at Wrigley Field.

The takeaway

This weekend series between the Pirates and Cubs features two teams looking to establish themselves in the competitive NL Central division. With both clubs hovering around .500 early on, the outcome of this series could set the tone for the rest of their seasons.