Cubs host the Dodgers to open 2-game series

The Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers are two iconic MLB teams with rich histories and passionate fanbases. When these two teams meet on the diamond, it’s always an exciting spectacle. As the Cubs host the Dodgers to open a two-game series at Wrigley Field on April 22, 2025, the stakes are high for both teams, especially early in the season. This matchup promises to be a thrilling one, featuring compelling storylines, star players, and pitching matchups that will captivate baseball fans.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the teams, the key players, the pitchers, and the factors that will influence the game. From a detailed breakdown of the starting pitchers to team statistics, betting odds, and expert predictions, let’s dive deep into what makes this two-game series so intriguing.

1. Team Overview

Los Angeles Dodgers: A Dominant Force

The Dodgers, led by manager Dave Roberts, have been one of the most successful teams in recent MLB history. With a championship in 2020 and multiple playoff appearances in the years following, the Dodgers have solidified their status as perennial contenders in the National League. They come into this series with a solid 16–7 record, making them one of the hottest teams in the league early in the 2025 season.

Offensively, the Dodgers are an offensive powerhouse. With stars like Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Max Muncy, they have the ability to score runs in bunches. Their deep lineup, which features both power and on-base skills, is among the best in the league. The Dodgers have also been impressive on the mound, boasting a team ERA of 3.90. With a mix of experienced pitchers like Clayton Kershaw and young arms like Dustin May, the Dodgers have the pitching depth to support their potent offense.

Chicago Cubs: A Rebuilding Team with a Lot of Potential

The Cubs, on the other hand, are in a different stage of their development. After a period of rebuilding following their 2016 World Series championship, the Cubs have been steadily working their way back to contention. They have a solid core of young players and veterans, with a lot of promise for the future. However, they have not yet reached the level of dominance that the Dodgers have exhibited in recent years.

Currently sitting at 14–10, the Cubs have shown they can compete with some of the best teams in the league. Their offense has been a bit inconsistent, but they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with players like Ian Happ and Nico Hoerner. The Cubs have a team ERA of 3.78, which places them among the better pitching staffs in the league. With a solid pitching rotation led by Shōta Imanaga, the Cubs’ chances in this series will largely depend on their ability to stay competitive on both sides of the ball.

2. Pitching Matchups

Dustin May (LAD) vs. Shōta Imanaga (CHC)

The pitching matchup for this game is one that will be closely watched. Both teams will rely heavily on their starting pitchers to set the tone for the game.

Dustin May – Los Angeles Dodgers

Dustin May, the towering right-handed pitcher for the Dodgers, has been one of the most promising young arms in the league. After overcoming injury setbacks, May has quickly re-established himself as a dominant force in the Dodgers’ rotation. He enters this game with a 1–1 record and an impressive 1.06 ERA over 17 innings of work. He has been exceptional at limiting runs and keeping opposing hitters off balance with his powerful fastball and devastating cutter.

May’s control has been one of his biggest strengths, as he’s able to command the strike zone effectively. He has struck out 14 batters and walked just six, showcasing his ability to generate swings and misses while avoiding free passes. His groundball-heavy approach makes him particularly difficult to hit, and he is someone the Cubs will need to account for throughout the game. If May is on his game, it will be a tough night for Chicago’s offense.

Shōta Imanaga – Chicago Cubs

Shōta Imanaga, a left-handed pitcher from Japan, has been a revelation for the Cubs since his arrival in the MLB. While he is not as well known as some of the other pitchers in the league, Imanaga has quietly built a strong case for himself as one of the Cubs’ most reliable starters. He has posted a 2–1 record with a 3.15 ERA over 20 innings of work.

Imanaga is a pitcher who relies on mixing his pitches effectively. His fastball sits in the low 90s, but he has an array of secondary pitches, including a nasty slider and curveball, that keep hitters off balance. His ability to command all of his pitches and change speeds is what makes him so effective. Imanaga has been particularly tough on left-handed hitters, which will be crucial when facing the Dodgers’ lefty-heavy lineup.

While Imanaga does not have the same raw power as May, he has been incredibly consistent and has shown the ability to keep opposing offenses in check. If the Cubs are to have a chance against the Dodgers, they’ll need Imanaga to pitch deep into the game and minimize the damage caused by their explosive offense.

3. Key Players to Watch

While the starting pitchers will certainly be the focus of attention in this game, both teams have key players who could swing the momentum of the game. Here are a few players to watch on both sides:

Los Angeles Dodgers:

• Mookie Betts: Betts has been one of the most consistent hitters for the Dodgers for several years. His combination of power, speed, and defensive ability makes him a game-changer. If Betts gets on base early, he can wreak havoc on the bases and create scoring opportunities for the Dodgers.
• Freddie Freeman: As one of the best all-around hitters in the game, Freeman has been a key figure in the Dodgers’ lineup. His plate discipline and ability to hit for both average and power make him a dangerous hitter in any situation.
• Max Muncy: Muncy has been known for his power bat, especially when it comes to hitting home runs. While he has struggled early in the 2025 season, Muncy’s potential for a breakout performance is always there, especially against a left-handed pitcher like Imanaga.

Chicago Cubs:

• Ian Happ: Happ is one of the Cubs’ most consistent hitters and provides both power and contact ability. His ability to get on base and drive in runs is crucial for the Cubs’ success, and he will need to deliver against a tough pitcher like May.
• Nico Hoerner: Hoerner has been one of the Cubs’ best all-around players this season. Known for his ability to make contact and create opportunities for his teammates, Hoerner will need to continue his strong play if the Cubs are to keep up with the Dodgers’ potent offense.
• Cody Bellinger: Former MVP Cody Bellinger has faced some struggles in recent years but still has the potential to be a game-changing player. Against his former team, Bellinger will be looking to prove himself and deliver a big performance in this series.

4. Team Stats and Betting Insights

Los Angeles Dodgers Team Stats:

• Record: 16–7
• Runs Per Game: 5.2
• Batting Average: .258
• Home Runs: 23
• Team ERA: 3.90
• Strikeouts Per 9 Innings: 8.5

The Dodgers’ offense is explosive, and their pitching staff is among the best in the league. Their ability to hit for both average and power makes them a difficult team to beat, especially when their pitchers are on top of their game.

Chicago Cubs Team Stats:

• Record: 14–10
• Runs Per Game: 4.5
• Batting Average: .242
• Home Runs: 17
• Team ERA: 3.78
• Strikeouts Per 9 Innings: 8.3

The Cubs have a solid pitching staff, but their offense has been inconsistent. They will need to find a way to score runs against a tough Dodgers staff and capitalize on any mistakes that May and company might make.

Betting Odds and Trends:

• Moneyline: Dodgers -120, Cubs +110
• Over/Under: 8.5
• First 5 Innings Line: Dodgers -0.5

The Dodgers enter this game as slight favorites, reflecting their superior overall performance in the 2025 season. While the Cubs have been competitive, the Dodgers’ firepower and pitching depth give them the edge in this matchup. However, the Cubs’ ability to compete at home and Imanaga’s strong start to the season make them a dangerous opponent.

5. Prediction

This game should be a tightly contested affair, but the Dodgers’ lineup and May’s strong pitching should give them the edge. Expect a close game early, with the Dodgers ultimately pulling ahead late. The Cubs may keep it close thanks to Imanaga’s ability to control the game, but Los Angeles’ depth and talent should carry them to a narrow victory.

Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 5, Cubs 3

6. How to Watch

• TV: FS1
• Streaming: MLB.TV, FuboTV, DirecTV Stream
• Radio: Dodgers Radio Network, Cubs Radio Network

The Dodgers vs. Cubs two-game series kicks off on April 22, 2025, at Wrigley Field, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting matchup. With star players, dominant pitchers, and compelling storylines on both sides, this game is one that fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re watching from home or at the ballpark, this game promises to deliver plenty of drama and excitement. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling start to a two-game series between two of the most beloved teams in baseball.