1. Game Overview

The struggling New York Mets travel to Wrigley Field to take on the Chicago Cubs in a National League matchup on Friday, April 17, 2026. The Mets are looking to snap a brutal losing streak, while the Cubs aim to build on their recent positive momentum. First pitch is scheduled for 2:21 PM. The game will be broadcast on Marquee Sports Network and WPIX.

2. Team Form and Analysis

The New York Mets enter this contest in a significant slump. According to recent power rankings, they are ranked just #28 in the league over the last five games, posting a dismal 0-5 record with a power rating of -2.64. They will send their struggling right-hander to the mound hoping he can turn his season around.

Kodai Senga (RHP): 0-2, 7.07 ERA, 19 SO

Senga has had a nightmare start to the 2026 campaign, failing to secure a win and posting an ERA north of 7.00. His high strikeout numbers show the potential is there, but he has been far too hittable. The Mets’ offense will need to provide substantial run support to overcome his recent pitching woes and break their five-game skid.

The Chicago Cubs, conversely, are trending in the right direction. They are ranked #8 in the league over their last five games, with a 3-2 record and a solid power rating of 1.99. They have a clear advantage on the mound with their starter, who has been dominant in his early appearances.

Edward Cabrera (RHP): 1-0, 1.62 ERA, 13 SO

Cabrera has been lights out to begin the year, boasting a sterling 1.62 ERA and securing his first win. His performance has been a key factor in the Cubs’ recent success. Facing a Mets team that is both struggling to win and sending a pitcher with a 7.07 ERA to the hill, the Cubs are in a prime position to secure a home victory.

3. Injury Report

The Mets are dealing with several injuries, most notably to outfielder Juan Soto (Calf), who is not expected back until April 21st. The pitching staff is also affected, with relievers A.J. Minter and Joey Gerber, and starters Tylor Megill and Justin Hagenman all on the injured list. First baseman Jorge Polanco (Achilles) is listed as probable for today’s game.

The Cubs’ pitching depth is being tested, with starters Justin Steele (Elbow), Jordan Wicks (Elbow), and Matthew Boyd (Biceps) all sidelined. Key bullpen arms Hunter Harvey (Triceps) and Phil Maton (Knee) are also out, which could put pressure on the rest of the relief corps.

Full Injury Report

4. ATS Trends

Neither team has been a profitable bet against the spread (ATS) this season. The Mets hold a 7-12-0 run line record, covering in just 36.8% of their games. They have been slightly better on the road, with a 5-5-0 ATS record. The Cubs are not much better, with a 7-11-0 run line record (38.9% cover rate). They have particularly struggled to cover at home, posting a poor 3-6-0 ATS record at Wrigley Field.

5. Betting Odds Breakdown

• Moneyline: The Cubs are the favorites at -142, meaning a bettor would need to risk $142 to win $100. The Mets are the underdog at +120, where a $100 wager would return a $120 profit.
• Run Line: The Cubs are listed at -1.5 (+126), requiring them to win by two or more runs to cash the bet. The Mets are +1.5 (-152), meaning they can lose by one run or win the game outright for their side of the bet to win.
• Total: The over/under is set at a high 10.5 runs. The Cubs have been an “over” machine this season, with 64.7% of their games exceeding the total. The Mets trend slightly towards the “under” at 52.9%.

6. Prediction

The pitching matchup tells the story of this game. Edward Cabrera has been nearly unhittable for the Cubs, while Kodai Senga has been one of the league’s most ineffective starters. Combined with the Mets’ dreadful 0-5 record in their last five games and the Cubs’ solid momentum, all signs point to a decisive home win. Senga’s high ERA suggests the Cubs’ bats will have plenty of opportunities, and Cabrera should be able to limit the damage from a slumping Mets lineup.

Final Score Prediction: Cubs 7, Mets 3

Disclaimer: This article is for entertainment purposes only. All betting information is provided for informational purposes and is not a recommendation to wager.