Cubs vs. Padres Prediction: Game 1 NL Wild Card Preview

The Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres begin a compelling 2026 NL Wild Card series with Game 1 at 10 p.m. ET on Tuesday at Petco Park in San Diego on Peacock.

Here’s my Cubs vs. Padres prediction based on the latest MLB odds:

Cubs vs. Padres Prediction for Game 1 NL Wild Card

• Over 7 (-115)

I prefer the over on the full-game total (seven runs) for my Cubs vs. Padres prediction in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card.

No team is hotter than the Padres right now, as they were able to steal home-field advantage from the Cubs in this series. That could matter a lot, considering the Padres went 51-30 at home this year compared to a 40-41 record on the road.

The Padres’ lineup played a pivotal role in their late-season push. Since returning from the All-Star break, San Diego has led the majors in batting average (.270) while ranking third in runs scored (343) and second in wRC+ (119).

For as good as the Padres’ lineup has been, the Cubs are even better offensively. Not only do they lead the majors in both wRC+ and runs scored since the All-Star break, but they are No. 1 in both categories across the entire season.

When it comes to pitching, both rotations were below average in the regular season. The Cubs ranked 18th in ERA, while the Padres finished 21st. San Diego’s bullpen has been brilliant, however, so grabbing an early lead could be critical.

Still, I think both teams can score enough to clear this total in Game 1.

Prediction: Over 7 (-115)

Cubs vs. Padres Odds: NL Wild Card, Game 1

• Cubs moneyline: +105
• Padres moneyline: -125
• Total: 7