We will be backing the Chicago Cubs’ win streak to continue as -168 favorites as they draw a dull arm to take advantage of this evening against the Kansas City Royals.
My Cubs vs. Royals predictions and MLB picks for Saturday, Aug. 8, see Chicago record yet another road win.
Who will win Cubs vs Royals today: Cubs (-168)
With the Kansas City Royals looking like zombies at the dish for almost a month now, owning a 91 wRC+, .685 OPS, 38% hard-hit rate, and just a 5.8% barrel rate, I have to be on the Chicago Cubs this evening. During that same stretch, the Cubs own a 119 wRC+, .345 wOBA, and .779 OPS.
With Royals starter Seth Lugo on the bump, he draws three elite-rated hitters and four others with strong ratings over on Batters-Box's current-season dataset. Lugo owns the second-worst pitcher rating on the day, while the Cubs have the second-highest average hitter matchup rating.
Despite the heavy juice, I think the Cubs are worth backing on both the moneyline and runline this evening. Take the runline.
COVERS INTEL: In 21 default average ratings, Seth Lugo allows 5+ hits 66.67% of the time, 6+ hits 52.38% of the time and 7+ hits 42.86% of the time. He also allows 2+ walks in 71.43% of those ratings.
Cubs vs Royals Over/Under pick: Under 9.5 (-116)
With this likely being newly acquired right-hander Clay Holmes’ Cubs debut, I think he will be able to hold down the Royals' frozen-solid offense. So far this season, through nine outings, Holmes owns a 2.39 ERA and 1.10 WHIP.
Even with how poorly Lugo has pitched this season, I am not anticipating the Cubs to pop off for more than eight runs. They are certainly capable of doing that on any given night, but I expect this one to stay lower scoring than it was last night.
- 2026 MLB Season: 363-730, -27.60
Cubs vs Royals weather
The weather tonight should be in the low 90s, with 12.8 MPH winds blowing out toward left-center.
Cubs vs Royals odds
- Moneyline: Cubs -168 | Royals +152
- Run line: Cubs -1.5 (-103) | Royals +1.5 (-107)
- Over/Under: Over 9.5 (+101) | Under 9.5 (-119)
Cubs vs Royals trend
The Chicago Cubs have hit the Moneyline in 28 of their last 40 games (+14.75 Units / 30% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Cubs vs. Royals.
How to watch Cubs vs Royals and game info
| Location | Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, MO |
| Date | Saturday, August 8, 2026 |
| First pitch | 7:10 p.m. ET |
| TV | MARQ, Royals.TV |
| Cubs starting pitcher | Clay Holmes (4-4, 2.29 ERA) |
| Royals starting pitcher | Seth Lugo (4-7, 4.41 ERA) |
Cubs vs Royals latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
