Cubs vs. Diamondbacks Prediction & Odds for Opening Day

The Chicago Cubs hope to put the Tokyo Series behind them when they travel to face the Arizona Diamondbacks on Opening Day. First pitch is scheduled for 10:10 p.m. ET on Thursday at Chase Field.

Chicago dropped two games to the Los Angeles Dodgers to begin the season and is now an underdog against another NL West team.

The Diamondbacks missed the playoffs last year following their run to the 2023 World Series, but the market expects them to bounce back in 2025.

Here’s a look at the updated MLB betting market and my Cubs vs. Diamondbacks prediction for Opening Day.

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks Odds: Thursday, March 27

• Cubs moneyline: +118
• Diamondbacks moneyline: -140
• Game total: 8.5 (+100/-120)

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks Opening Day Starting Pitchers

• Cubs starting pitcher: Justin Steele
• Diamondbacks starting pitcher: Zac Gallen

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks Prediction for Opening Day

According to the current MLB odds, I’ll target Arizona’s team total (over 3.5 runs) as my Cubs vs. Diamondbacks prediction for Opening Day.

I prefer this angle as opposed to taking the Diamondbacks’ current moneyline odds.

Arizona led MLB with 886 runs scored during the 2024 season, marking the team’s best performance since scoring 908 in 1999. The Diamondbacks can’t repeat that performance, but PECOTA still has them finishing with 776 runs this year.

The Cubs have had a week off before playing again, but the travel schedule from these international series can be tough on teams.

For example, the San Diego Padres got off to a 3-5 start last year after splitting the Seoul Series with the Dodgers.

I like Arizona’s chances of scoring on Chicago in its home opener.

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks Prediction: Diamondbacks Over 3.5 Runs (-160)

How to Watch Cubs vs. Diamondbacks on Opening Day

• Date: Thursday, March 27
• Time: 10:10 p.m. ET
• Location: Chase Field
• TV info: MARQ, ARID

Cubs 2025 Schedule

Diamondbacks 2025 Schedule