Pittsburgh Pirates vs Chicago Cubs

Overview

MLB Schedule

• Cubs @ Pirates on Sunday, Jul 26, 2026 at 10:35 AM PDT

The Chicago Cubs (57-45) are set to face the Pittsburgh Pirates (53-52) at PNC Park in Pittsburgh on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 1:35 PM ET. This matchup is crucial for both teams as they vie for positioning in the National League Central division. The Cubs currently trail the Milwaukee Brewers by six games, while the Pirates are 11.5 games behind the division leaders. A win today would not only help the Cubs maintain their lead in the NL Wild Card race but also provide a significant boost in their pursuit of the division title. For the Pirates, securing a victory would keep them within striking distance of the Wild Card spot, emphasizing the importance of this game for both teams.

Season Snapshot

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs have demonstrated a balanced offensive approach this season, ranking fourth in the league with an average of 5.1 runs per game. Their lineup boasts a .244 batting average, .337 on-base percentage, and a .411 slugging percentage. Pete Crow-Armstrong has been a standout performer, leading the team with 22 home runs, 56 RBIs, and 109 hits. On the mound, the Cubs have a team ERA of 4.27, placing them tenth in the National League. Their pitching staff has accumulated 798 strikeouts and issued 311 walks.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates have been a formidable offensive force, leading the National League with a .261 team batting average. They average 5.0 runs per game, with a .339 on-base percentage and a .424 slugging percentage. Bryan Reynolds has been a key contributor, recording 24 doubles, two triples, and 14 home runs. However, the Pirates' pitching staff has faced challenges, holding a team ERA of 4.26, ranking 18th in MLB. They have accumulated 943 strikeouts and 370 walks.

Recent Form

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs have shown resilience in recent games, winning three of their last five. Their offense has been particularly potent, scoring 11 runs in their most recent game, bringing their season total to 534 runs. This offensive surge has been crucial in maintaining their position in the NL Wild Card race. Defensively, the Cubs' bullpen has been impressive, posting a 0.91 ERA and a 0.500 WHIP over the past three games.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates have struggled in their recent outings, losing three consecutive games. Despite these setbacks, their offense remains a threat, with players like Nick Gonzales (.311 batting average) and Ryan O'Hearn (.278 batting average, 16 home runs, 64 RBIs) contributing significantly. The Pirates' pitching staff, however, has been inconsistent, which has impacted their ability to secure wins.

Talking Points

• Cubs' Offensive Momentum: Can the Cubs' recent offensive explosion continue against the Pirates' pitching staff?
• Pirates' Home Advantage: Will the Pirates capitalize on their home field to snap their losing streak?
• Wild Card Implications: How will this game affect the NL Wild Card standings?
• Pitching Matchup: Which team's starter will step up to deliver a crucial performance?
• Injury Impact: How will the absence of key players influence each team's strategy?

Players to Watch

• Pete Crow-Armstrong (Cubs): Leading the team with 22 home runs and 56 RBIs, his performance is pivotal for the Cubs' offense.
• Bryan Reynolds (Pirates): With 24 doubles and 14 home runs, Reynolds is a constant threat at the plate.
• Braxton Ashcraft (Pirates): His pitching has been solid, holding a 3.95 ERA and 9-4 record this season.
• Jameson Taillon (Cubs): Despite a 5.38 ERA, Taillon's experience could be crucial in a high-stakes game.
• Nick Gonzales (Pirates): His .311 batting average makes him a key on-base threat for the Pirates.

Key Matchups & Storylines

• Ashcraft vs. Cubs' Sluggers: Can Ashcraft contain the Cubs' powerful lineup, particularly Crow-Armstrong?
• Taillon's Redemption: Will Taillon overcome his ERA challenges to deliver a strong performance?
• Pirates' Home Field Advantage: How will the Pirates leverage their home stadium to break their losing streak?
• Wild Card Race Dynamics: The outcome of this game could significantly impact the NL Wild Card standings.

Fun Facts

• The Cubs' 11-run game on Saturday brought their season total to 534 runs, on pace for 832 runs, which would be their second-most since 1970.
• Pete Crow-Armstrong has been a standout performer for the Cubs, leading the team with 22 home runs, 56 RBIs, and 109 hits.
• Bryan Reynolds has been a key contributor for the Pirates, recording 24 doubles, two triples, and 14 home runs.
• The Cubs' bullpen has been impressive, posting a 0.91 ERA and a 0.500 WHIP over the past three games.
• The Pirates' pitching staff has faced challenges, holding a team ERA of 4.26, ranking 18th in MLB.

Things to Chirp About

• "Can the Cubs' offense keep up this hot streak against the Pirates?"
• "Is it time for the Pirates to turn things around at home?"
• "How will this game impact the NL Wild Card race?"
• "Will Taillon step up and deliver a strong performance for the Cubs?"

What to Expect

Expect a competitive game with both teams eager to secure a win. The Cubs' potent offense will challenge the Pirates' pitching staff, while the Pirates will look to leverage their home field advantage to break their losing streak. The performance of the starting pitchers, Ashcraft and Taillon, will be pivotal in determining the game's outcome. With playoff implications on the line, both teams are likely to play with heightened intensity.