The San Diego Padres head to Wrigley Field on Monday, June 29, to begin a three-game National League series against the Chicago Cubs. Both clubs are firmly in the playoff hunt, making this one of the marquee matchups on the MLB schedule. The Cubs are expected to hand the ball to left-hander Shota Imanaga, while the Padres have yet to officially announce a starting pitcher, though the rotation spot remains undecided entering game day.

With Chicago returning home after a successful road trip and San Diego coming off a strong weekend series, bettors should expect a competitive opener. Here are the best MLB gambling bets for Padres vs. Cubs on June 29.

Padres vs. Cubs Starting Pitchers

The Cubs are scheduled to start Shota Imanaga (5-6, 4.40 ERA). Although his record is below .500, Imanaga has remained a reliable presence in Chicago’s injury-depleted rotation. The left-hander has collected 88 strikeouts while consistently attacking the strike zone and limiting walks. He has also pitched well at Wrigley Field throughout the season, giving Chicago confidence in the opener. The Padres had not named a probable starter as of Sunday evening, leaving their rotation decision open heading into the series.

Best Bet: Cubs Moneyline

Chicago enters the series with momentum after taking a road series from the Milwaukee Brewers. The Cubs have won 12 of their last 16 games and return to Wrigley Field where they have been difficult to beat this season. Their lineup continues to receive production throughout the order, while the bullpen has found answers despite several injuries to the pitching staff.

San Diego has also been playing quality baseball, but the uncertainty surrounding its starting pitcher creates an advantage for Chicago. Imanaga has the experience edge, and the Cubs’ offense has been one of the National League’s most consistent units at home.

Best Bet: Cubs Moneyline

Best Total Bet: Under 8 Runs

Even with two capable offenses, this matchup projects as a relatively low-scoring contest. Imanaga has the ability to neutralize left-handed hitters and limit big innings, while San Diego’s bullpen has quietly become one of the team’s greatest strengths during its recent surge.

If the Padres receive a solid outing from whichever starter they ultimately choose, both clubs could lean heavily on elite relief pitching during the final innings.

Pick: Under 8 Runs

Best Player Prop

Shota Imanaga Over Strikeouts

Imanaga has consistently generated swings and misses throughout his MLB career, and San Diego’s lineup features several aggressive hitters willing to chase pitches outside the strike zone. If the Cubs’ starter works six innings, reaching six or more strikeouts is a realistic expectation.

Final Prediction

This should be one of Monday’s most entertaining games, but Chicago owns several advantages entering the opener. The Cubs have the confirmed starting pitcher, home-field advantage, and the momentum of a strong June. San Diego is certainly capable of pulling the upset, but the uncertainty surrounding its rotation makes Chicago the safer betting choice.

Best Bets

• Cubs Moneyline
• Under 8 Runs
• Shota Imanaga Over Strikeouts

Prediction: Cubs 4, Padres 3.