Cubs vs Marlins Predictions, Odds & Starting Pitchers (April 28)

• The Cubs and Marlins begin a three-game set on Friday afternoon
• Marcus Stroman and Jesus Luzardo clash on the hill
• Who takes the series opener? Find the Cubs vs Marlins predictions and odds, below

Friday marks the beginning of an intriguing three-game series between the Chicago Cubs (14-10, 6-2 away) and the Miami Marlins (13-13, 7-6 home) at LoanDepot Park. The first pitch is scheduled for 6:40 PM ET.

Chicago is going to send Marcus Stroman to the hill, their clear-cut ace so far. The Marlins counter with left-hander Jesus Luzardo.

Cubs vs Marlins Odds

There is no clear moneyline favorite, with both teams sitting at -108 odds. But, the Cubbies have a slight edge at -1.5 on the runline. Chicago has won four of the last six against Miami. This will be their first meeting of 2023.

Odds as of April 27th at FanDuel Sportsbook.

Chicago vs Miami Probable Pitchers

Stroman had given up just two earned runs through his first four starts to begin the campaign, but he finally got touched up on April 23rd against the Dodgers, who tagged the righty for five earned across five frames, including three homers.

Marcus Stroman, Painted 92mph Two Seamer. 🖌️🎨 pic.twitter.com/uJ5MLTTpnd

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 23, 2023

Nonetheless, you can’t look past his statistics. Stroman’s ERA still sits at 2.17, striking out 30 in 29 innings while walking 11. He’s had great success against the Marlins as well, compiling a 3.04 in five career appearances.

Stroman vs Luzardo Stats

With Sandy Alcantara struggling, Luzardo has been the Marlins’ best pitcher. The 25-year-old owns a 2-1 record and 3.62 ERA in five outings, striking out 32 and issuing a mere nine walks. He’s doing a solid job of pounding the strike zone on a consistent basis.

That being said, Luzardo is coming off his worst start yet. In Cleveland, he allowed four earned runs across 4.1 innings, also giving up two long balls. In the process, Luzardo took his first loss. Luzardo tends to pitch well versus Chicago however, posting a 2.89 ERA in three starts.

Cubs Take Care of Padres

Chicago is really thriving through the first month of the season, possessing one of the most consistent MLB lineups around. They rank third in runs scored, second in average, and second in hits. Their 3.57 team ERA ain’t too shabby, either.

🚨We interrupt your Thursday afternoon to bring you the first Dansby Dinger of the season🚨 pic.twitter.com/CGvrIGPWPT

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) April 27, 2023

The Cubbies just took two out of three from the slumping Padres, including a 5-2 win in the rubber match Thursday. Hayden Wesneski tossed five quality innings, while Dansby Swanson and Ian Happ powered the offense with two hits apiece.

Marlins Finally End Losing Skid

Miami looked to be heading for a fifth straight loss on Thursday and a series sweep at the hands of the Atlanta Braves. But, the Marlins rallied in the top of the ninth, putting up a five-spot to win 5-4. Garrett Cooper fueled the comeback with a two-run double, ending a brutal slump in the process.

Now at .500 baseball, Miami heads back to Florida for a six-game homestand. After the Cubs leave town, the Braves are up next. Needless to say, this is a tough stretch ahead for the Fish.

CHC vs MIA – Last 10 Games

Cubs vs Marlins Prediction

You got a pair of top-notch arms on the mound who are surely going to bounce back from rough starts. That’s why I’m eyeing the under here.

Pick: Under 7.5 runs (-110)