The spotlight of the baseball world descends on Dodger Stadium on Saturday, April 25, 2026, for a high-profile showdown between the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers. This contest is not just a battle of two National League heavyweights; it is a fascinating pitching duel between a veteran right-hander enjoying a late-career resurgence and an international superstar still navigating the growing pains of a highly anticipated rookie season.
The Pitching Breakdown
Colin Rea (CHC): Colin Rea has been a quiet anchor for the Cubs’ rotation in the early stages of 2026. Entering this start with a pristine 3.00 ERA, Rea has managed to surrender three runs or fewer in every appearance this season. His success is built on command rather than pure power, as he is currently averaging a modest 7.5 strikeouts per nine innings. However, his ability to induce soft contact and avoid high-stress innings has been vital for a Chicago team that sits at 16-9. For Rea, the challenge tonight is an elite Dodgers lineup that ranks fourth in the league in scoring, averaging nearly 5.5 runs per game.
Roki Sasaki (LAD): For the Dodgers, the focus remains squarely on the Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki. While the “stuff” is undeniably electric, Sasaki’s transition to the MLB has been uneven. He enters this start with a 6.11 ERA and a 1.87 WHIP through four outings. Command has been his primary obstacle; he is currently issuing 6.1 walks per nine innings, which has led to high pitch counts and early exits. In his last start on April 19 against Colorado, he labored through 4.2 innings, surrendering three earned runs. However, his 17 strikeouts in 17.2 innings prove that when he finds the zone, he remains nearly unhittable.
Best Bets for April 25
1. Los Angeles Dodgers Moneyline (-154) Despite Sasaki’s inflated ERA, the Dodgers remain the tactical play as home favorites. Los Angeles has been priced as the favorite in every single game this season, reflecting the sheer depth of their roster. While Rea has been more consistent, the Dodgers’ offensive ceiling—led by Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman—is high enough to overcome a shaky start from their rookie. With Sasaki due for positive regression in his command, backing the 17-8 Dodgers at home is the sharpest move.
2. Over 9.0 Total Runs (-110) The betting environment at Dodger Stadium favors the hitters tonight. With Sasaki struggling to find the strike zone and Rea’s lack of swing-and-miss stuff, both offenses should find plenty of traffic on the bases. Chicago currently ranks third in the MLB against left-handed pitching, and while Sasaki is a righty, the Dodgers’ bullpen relies heavily on southpaws. Expect a high-scoring affair that clears the nine-run mark by the seventh inning.
3. Roki Sasaki Over 5.5 Strikeouts (-115) The most consistent part of Sasaki’s game has been his raw velocity and ability to miss bats. Even in his most difficult starts, he has consistently flashed strikeout potential. The Cubs’ lineup, while disciplined, is prone to swinging at high-velocity heaters. As long as Sasaki can navigate five innings, his strikeout rate suggests he will clear this modest prop total comfortably.
The Sharp Edge: Watch Seiya Suzuki. The Cubs’ outfielder has been on a tear, hitting his “Hits Over” in 21 of his last 25 games.
Baseball Best Bets 