40 Facts About Pirates Vs Cubs

Historical Rivalry

The Pittsburgh Pirates and the Chicago Cubs have a rivalry that dates back over a century. This long-standing competition has seen countless memorable moments and intense games.

1. The Pirates and Cubs have been playing each other since 1898, making them one of the oldest rivalries in baseball.
2. Over the years, both teams have had their ups and downs, but the rivalry remains fierce and exciting.

Current Records and Recent Performance

As of September 2024, both teams have shown varying levels of success. Let's dive into their current standings and recent games.

3. The Pittsburgh Pirates have a record of 64-73.
4. The Chicago Cubs stand at 71-67.
5. The Pirates have won 24 of their last 40 games since the All-Star break.
6. The Cubs had a six-game winning streak on the road before losing the first two games of their three-game series against the Pirates.

Wild Card Chances

The Cubs are in the hunt for a playoff spot, making every game crucial.

7. The Cubs are currently 4.5 games behind in the chase for the final National League wild card spot.
8. This series against the Pirates could significantly impact their playoff chances.

Key Players and Performances

Both teams have standout players who have made significant contributions this season.

9. Paul Skenes, a rookie pitcher for the Pirates, delivered five solid innings against the Cubs, allowing four hits and issuing four walks while recording six strikeouts.
10. Following Skenes' exit, the Pirates' bullpen, including Colin Holderman, Carmen Mlodzinski, and David Bednar, pitched four innings, allowing just one hit.
11. Kyle Hendricks, the starting pitcher for the Cubs, struck out five batters during his five innings, giving up two runs.

Betting Trends and Fan Predictions

Betting trends and fan predictions add another layer of excitement to the rivalry.

12. 60% of the bets and 19% of the money are on the Pirates on the moneyline.
13. 70% of the bets and 87% of the money are on the over.
14. 72% of the bets and 61% of the money are on the Pirates to cover the run line.

Team Strategies and Roster Differences

The Pirates and Cubs have different strategies and roster compositions, impacting their gameplay.

15. The Pirates have one of the youngest rosters in MLB, with most players in their early to mid-20s.
16. In contrast, the Cubs have an older roster with many players in their 30s.
17. The Cubs have one of the highest payrolls in MLB, while the Pirates have the lowest.

Recent Trades and Their Impact

Trades can significantly alter a team's dynamics. Both the Pirates and Cubs have made notable trades recently.

18. The Pirates acquired Kevin Hart, adding depth to their pitching staff.
19. The departure of veteran players like Tom Gorzelanny has also impacted the Pirates.
20. Jim Hendry, the Cubs' General Manager, is often criticized for his strategic decisions, particularly in terms of player trades and roster management.

Game Strategies

Each team has its unique approach to winning games.

21. The Pirates prefer long games, keeping things close in the early innings and then trying to overtake the opponent in the late innings.
22. The Cubs rely on their experience and heavier hitting to get off to an early lead and maintain it throughout the game.

Historical Trades and Player Contributions

Historical trades and player contributions have shaped the current rosters of both teams.

23. The trade involving Sean Grabow and Jose Ascanio was seen as a sabermetrically questionable move by many.
24. Josh Harrison, acquired by the Pirates in a trade, has become a key player for the team.
25. Freddy Sanchez, a former Pirates player, is remembered for his outstanding performance at second base.
26. Nyjer Morgan, a former Cubs player, was known for his high average and base-running abilities.

Series Importance and Recent Victories

Winning this series is crucial for both teams, especially the Cubs, who are eyeing a playoff spot.

27. For the Cubs, this series directly impacts their playoff chances.
28. From the Pirates' perspective, winning one out of three games against the Cubs would not be a bad outcome.
29. The Pirates recently defeated the Milwaukee Brewers, a team they have historically struggled against.

Notable Trades and Player Potential

Trades and player potential continue to shape the future of both teams.

30. The trade involving Sean Burnett and Joel Hanrahan was another example of the Pirates' strategic moves.
31. Kevin Hart, acquired by the Pirates, is expected to be a league-average pitcher based on his previous performance.
32. Tom Gorzelanny, a former Pirate, had a promising career before experiencing a decline in mid-2008.

Series at Wrigley Field

Games at Wrigley Field are always special, adding to the intensity of the rivalry.

33. The series between the Pirates and Cubs is often intense, with both teams bringing their A-game to Wrigley Field.
34. The historic stadium provides a unique atmosphere that adds to the excitement of the games.

Bullpen and Lineup Strength

Both teams have strengths in their bullpen and lineup that contribute to their success.

35. The Pirates' bullpen has been a key factor in their recent success.
36. The Cubs' lineup is known for its power and consistency.

Young Talent and Veteran Presence

The Pirates and Cubs have a mix of young talent and veteran presence, each bringing unique strengths to the team.

37. The Pirates have a plethora of young talent, including players like Jared Triolo.
38. The Cubs have a strong veteran presence, with many players in their 30s contributing significantly to the team's success.

Payroll Impact and Recent Trades

The difference in payroll between the two teams reflects their different strategies.

39. The Cubs' higher payroll allows them to attract and retain top talent.
40. The Pirates must rely on scouting and development to build their roster.

The Legacy of Pirates vs Cubs

The Pirates vs Cubs rivalry is one of baseball's oldest and most storied matchups. With games dating back to 1898, these teams have seen countless memorable moments. The Pirates' recent resurgence and the Cubs' fight for a wild card spot add new chapters to their history. Key players like Paul Skenes and Kyle Hendricks have made significant impacts, showcasing the talent on both sides. The Pirates' young roster contrasts sharply with the Cubs' veteran lineup, highlighting different team-building strategies. Despite payroll differences, both teams bring their best to the field, making every game a must-watch. As the season progresses, the outcomes of these matchups will shape their playoff hopes and future prospects. This rivalry, rich in history and excitement, continues to captivate fans and define the essence of baseball competition.