The Cleveland Guardians have had to wait patiently for their home opener, but it’s finally here today as they host the Chicago Cubs at Progressive Field.
Fresh off a series win over the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cleveland is the early AL Central leader. Still, my Cubs vs. Guardians predictions see Cade Horton and a powerful Chicago lineup spoiling the party this afternoon.
Check out my MLB picks and betting angles for this April 3 battle.
Who will win Cubs vs Guardians today: Cubs moneyline (-108)
If you’re looking for a free-scoring offense, the Chicago Cubs are a good pick. They finished fifth in runs scored in 2025 and, boosted by Alex Bregman’s arrival, they’ve piled up 30 runs through their opening six contests this year.
It also helps that Cade Horton is taking the ball today. He’s posted a 1.75 ERA across his past five starts, including a steady effort in his first outing of 2026.
Chicago swept the Cleveland Guardians when the teams squared off last summer, with Horton pitching seven scoreless innings in one of those victories, and it’s easier to trust the visitors’ lineup here.
COVERS INTEL: The Guardians scored the fewest runs in the American League in 2025 (643) and had the second-lowest team OPS (.670) in MLB.
Cubs vs Guardians Over/Under pick: Under 7.5 (-104)
There’s a compelling case for the Under, which was a winning ticket in four of the last five meetings between these teams – and in all three of Cleveland’s matchups with the defending champs in L.A. this week, including a 4-1 victory on Wednesday.
With two quality starters on the mound, don’t count on the scoring getting out of hand, especially as the Guardians have a batting average of .189 through their first seven games.
The hosts should have the hot bat of Chase DeLauter available again this afternoon, but I see Horton putting the clamps on Jose Ramirez & Co.
Cubs vs Guardians odds
- Moneyline: Chicago -118 | Cleveland +100
- Run line: Chicago -1.5 (+146) | Cleveland +1.5 (-176)
- Over/Under: Over 7.5 (-112) | Under 7.5 (-108)
Cubs vs Guardians trend
The Cleveland Guardians have hit the Game Total Under in 72 of their last 128 games (+17.40 Units / 12% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Cubs vs. Guardians.
How to watch Cubs vs Guardians and game info
| Location | Progressive Field, Cleveland, OH |
| Date | Friday, April 3, 2026 |
| First pitch | 4:10 p.m. ET |
| TV | Marquee, Guardians TV |
| Cubs starting pitcher | Cade Horton (1-0, 2.84 ERA) |
| Guardians starting pitcher | Joey Cantillo (0-0, 4.91 ERA) |
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Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
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