Colorado Rockies @ Chicago Cubs - May 26, 2025

As a retired coach with years of experience studying team dynamics and game strategies, I have seen my fair share of matchups where pitching and batting can dictate the flow of the game. Tonight’s matchup between the Colorado Rockies and Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field offers an intriguing contrast in talent, statistics, and momentum.

The Rockies are bringing left-hander Carson Palmquist to the mound. Unfortunately for Colorado, he has struggled this season with a record of 0-2 and an alarming ERA that hovers around 5.8. His strikeout rate sits below average, which indicates that he has had difficulty putting hitters away effectively. This lack of command could be pivotal against a Cubs lineup that is beginning to find its rhythm after a recent victory over Cincinnati.

On the other hand, the Cubs will counter with Jameson Taillon. Though his win-loss record stands at 3-3 with an ERA slightly over 4.0, it’s worth noting that he has been performing steadily—his strikeout numbers indicate that he can miss bats when needed. Taillon’s ability to pitch deep into games will be critical for Chicago if they want to capitalize on their home-field advantage.

Looking at both teams’ offensive outputs paints a clearer picture of what we might expect tonight. The Cubs are averaging just over six runs per game with nearly ten hits—a mark that shows their offense is not just effective but also capable of sustaining pressure on opposing pitchers through consistent hitting. Their OBP percentage also suggests they know how to get on base and create scoring opportunities.

Conversely, the Rockies’ offensive numbers tell a different story; they’re struggling significantly compared to their opponents by averaging only around 3.3 runs per game with a subpar batting average hovering around .213. These figures suggest they may find it challenging against Taillon tonight, especially since they’ve lost several close contests recently—including one against New York where they were unable to capitalize on key moments.

Given these circumstances, I would predict that the Chicago Cubs will secure a victory this evening—perhaps comfortably so considering their current form coupled with Colorado’s struggles both offensively and defensively.

As for the total score set at 8.5—taking into account how well the Cubs have been swinging lately combined with Rocky’s propensity for allowing runs due in part to their weak pitching performances—I lean toward betting on the OVER here as well.

In summary, if all plays out according to expectation—the Cubs should emerge victorious while pushing past the projected total score owing largely to their power-hitting potential against an underperforming Rockies squad tonight at Wrigley Field!