The Pittsburgh Pirates (51-71) visit the Chicago Cubs (68-52) for the opener of a 3-game series Friday. First pitch from Wrigley Field is set for 2:20 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let's analyze BetMGM Sportsbook's MLB odds around the Pirates vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 3-1

The Pirates, who are last in the NL Central, have lost 5 straight games. They were swept by the Milwaukee Brewers in their last series, dropping the final 2 games a combined 26-5. Pittsburgh is 1-5 in its last 6 road games.

The Cubs are coming off a 2-1 road loss to the Toronto Blue Jays Thursday, allowing both runs in the seventh inning. They dropped 2 of 3 in that series and have lost 3 straight series. Chicago is just 4-6 over its l

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