The Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies kick off a full day of MLB action with a matinee contest at 12:05 p.m. ET on Sunday. Philadelphia is listed as a -135 favorite (risk $135 to win $100) at Caesars Sportsbook, while the Over-Under is set at 10 (see up-to-date'odds for every game this week on our MLB odds page). Before making any Cubs vs. Phillies picks, you NEED to check out the MLB predictions from the SportsLine Projection Model.
The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every MLB game 10,000 times, and it is 280-240 on top-rated MLB money-line picks since the start of the 2021 season, returning over $500 for $100 players. This is the same model that pegged the 2021 Atlanta Braves at 10-1 as one of three best bets to win it all last season. Anybody who has followed it has seen profitable returns.
The model knows the Cubs are in the upper echelon of the National League in triples and stolen bases. That illustrates team speed, and Chicago is above-average in doubles, walks, and on-base percentage. The Cubs also have an advantage on the mound behind veteran Drew Smyly, who has a 46.5 percent ground ball rate in 2022. Chicago can take advantage of Philadelphia starter Bailey Falter, who has a .911 OPS allowed and a 1.46 WHIP this season.
The model also knows the Phillies have plenty of power. Philadelphia is near the top of the NL in runs scored, home runs, slugging percentage and OPS. That attack is led by two-time All-Star Kyle Schwarber, who leads the National League in home runs. Chicago ranks below the NL average in runs and home runs, giving Philadelphia a potential edge.