Sunday night at Wrigley gives Cincinnati a notable starting-pitching matchup at an underdog price.
Chase Burns is listed at 14-3 with a 2.77 ERA and 164 strikeouts, while Shota Imanaga is 8-9 with a 3.78 ERA and 144 strikeouts. The Cubs own the stronger overall record, but Sports4Play prefers taking plus money behind Burns rather than laying favorite money in a divisional matchup.
Chicago is the stronger team by season record, and MLB notes Imanaga owns a 2.48 ERA in five career starts against Cincinnati. Confirmed lineups, bullpen availability and any pitching change are material before first pitch.
Line snapshot checked Aug. 29, 2026: Cincinnati +121 / Chicago -145, total 9. Lines move. Predictions are analysis and opinion, not guarantees.