Preview for Sunday, September 20, 2026. Schedule and player information can change.
Chicago Cubs at Cincinnati Reds
The Cubs head to Cincinnati carrying the more productive offensive profile of the two clubs, with a WP-estimated wOBA of 0.334 compared to the Reds' 0.305. Chicago's pitching staff also shows a lower ERA at 4.18 versus Cincinnati's 4.87, and Chicago's WP-estimated FIP of 4.73 is a touch better than the Reds' 4.90, suggesting a modest edge for the Cubs on both sides of the ball based on the team-level figures.
Starting-pitcher information for the Cubs is unavailable in this preview, so the pitching matchup comparison rests on Cincinnati's Rhett Lowder, who is listed as the scheduled starter for the Reds. Lowder has thrown approximately 124.3 innings this season with a 5.79 ERA and a WP-calculated FIP of 4.85, marks that sit above his team's already troubled overall ERA of 4.87 and FIP of 4.90.
Several injury statuses are on record for both sides. Tyler Austin, Brandon Birdsell, and Ben Brown of the Cubs are each listed on the 60-Day IL, while Sam Benschoter of the Reds is listed on the 7-Day IL and Connor Burns and Ricky Cabrera of the Reds are each listed on the 60-Day IL. Taken together with the team statistics, the Cubs' better wOBA and lower ERA and FIP give Chicago the favorable numbers in this matchup.
Statistical scope: MLB Stats API; 2026 regular season season-to-date; exact statistical through-date not supplied.
No rated WP selection is available in this article snapshot.
WP home-run candidate for Cubs: Michael Conforto. The selection uses roster and season-stat inputs; it does not establish a confirmed batting lineup or favourable betting odds.
WP home-run candidate for Reds: Elly De La Cruz. The selection uses roster and season-stat inputs; it does not establish a confirmed batting lineup or favourable betting odds.
Predictions are uncertain; no outcome is guaranteed. Check the picks page for the latest available selections.