Wed Apr 30 06:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Cubs Begin NL Central Play Against Struggling Pirates
**Pittsburgh, PA** – The Chicago Cubs finally begin their 2025 NL Central division matchups this week, facing a struggling Pittsburgh Pirates team at PNC Park. This three-game series marks the Cubs’ first games against any NL Central opponent this season, a surprising statistic given they’ve already played 29 games.
The Pirates, currently sitting at the bottom of the NL Central with an 11-18 record, are coming off a mixed 3-3 road trip against the Angels and Dodgers. While they took two of three from the Angels, including a dominant pitching performance by Paul Skenes, they faltered against the Dodgers, blowing leads in several games.
Despite their overall struggles, the Pirates offense is sparked by Oneil Cruz, who has become a standout hitter. Cruz, recently moved to the leadoff spot, has hit four leadoff home runs in April (a franchise record) and leads the MLB with 12 stolen bases. However, other key players like Bryan Reynolds are struggling.
The pitching matchup is intriguing. The Cubs will face Andrew Heaney (1.72 ERA), Carmen Mlodzinski (6.95 ERA), and the highly touted Paul Skenes (2.39 ERA) in the three-game set. The Cubs’ pitching rotation will counter with Shota Imanaga, Matthew Boyd, and Colin Rea. Thursday’s matchup between Rea and Skenes is considered one of the best pitching duels of the early season.
A series win would be crucial for the Pirates to climb out of the NL Central cellar and gain ground on the Cubs, who are currently six games ahead. The Cubs are favored to win at least two of the three games but will need to be wary of Skenes.
Following this series, the Cubs will face the Brewers in Milwaukee, and will then have to wait until later in May to play the Reds and the Cardinals. The Cubs’ first home game against a division rival is scheduled for May 30th against the Reds.
First Piper 