MLB Picks · May 26, 2026
Chicago Cubs vs Pittsburgh Pirates
Strong Lean
Pirates ML
-141
72
/ 100
Edge Score
Starting Pitchers
Chicago Cubs · Away
Jordan Wicks (?HP)
Pittsburgh Pirates · Home
Braxton Ashcraft (RHP)
AI Analysis
This is among the clearest edges of the slate. Braxton Ashcraft has been excellent (ERA 2.89, WHIP 1.03, 65 K in 62.1 IP), while the Cubs' probable Jordan Wicks has no available stats — a significant unknown on an already-struggling rotation. Chicago is on a 9-game losing streak with an abysmal L5 offense (1.6 R/G, .148 AVG, .492 OPS) — one of the worst recent offensive lines on the board. Pittsburgh's offense (.905 OPS from Lowe, Cruz and Reynolds solid) should be able to support Ashcraft at home. PNC Park is a pitcher-friendly venue that further suits Ashcraft's profile.
Concerns
- •Jordan Wicks' stats unavailable — unclear how deep he can go
- •Cubs' overall talent (.721 OPS) is above-average despite cold streak
- •Pittsburgh's L5 offense (3.2 R/G) also moderate
- •Weather data unavailable
- •Cubs could be due for regression off brutal L9
Factor Breakdown