Pirates at Cubs 9/15/19 - MLB Picks & Predictions

The Pittsburgh Pirates visit Wrigley Field on Sunday to complete a three-game series against National League Central rival the Chicago Cubs. Pittsburgh was routed in the series opener by the Cubs 17-8. Kevin Newman collected three hits and knocked in a run for Pittsburgh in the loss, while Pablo Reyes had three hits. Steve Brault allowed 10 runs and fell to 4-5 on the season.

The Cubs power display was led by Anthony Rizzo with a grand slam, while Willson Contreras blasted to long solo home runs as the Cubs kept pace in the National League wildcard race. Rookie Nico Hoerner belted a two run home for the first round tripper of his major league career and collected four RBIs in the win. Nicholas Castellanos added a home run as well.

Bryan Reynolds is leading Pittsburgh with a .323 batting average, while Starling Marte leads in hits with 159. Josh Bell is leading Pittsburgh in home runs with 37 and RBIs with 116. Pittsburgh is averaging .266 at the plate while opponents are averaging .265. On Sunday, the Pirates will send Trevor Williams to the mound. The right-hander is 7-6 with an ERA of 5.21, 102 Ks and 37 BBs.

Anthony Rizzo is leading the Cubs with a .286 batting average. Javier Baez leads in hits with 149. Kyle Schwarber leads in home runs with 35 and Anthony Rizzo in RBIs with 91. Chicago is averaging .250 at the plate, while opposing hitters are averaging .248. On Sunday, the Cubs will send Jose Quintana to the mound. The lefthander is 13-8 with an ERA of 4.15, 143 Ks and 43 BBs.