The 2026 MLB season is off to a thrilling start, and the upcoming three-game series between the Pirates and Cubs at Wrigley Field promises to keep the momentum going. This weekend, the Pirates will be looking to shake up the Cubs' recent dominance, as the Cubs have won the season series against the Pirates every year since 2015.
Season Series Overview
Sound familiar? This isn't just a weekend of MLB action; it's a continuation of a rivalry that has seen the Cubs outshine the Pirates. The Cubs' dominance has been particularly pronounced at Wrigley Field, where they have gone 57-31 against the Pirates since 2015.
Last year, the Cubs had a particularly strong showing, going 10-3 overall against the Pirates, including a 5-2 record at home. The Cubs' 8-4 victory over the Pirates on September 17, 2025 is still fresh in the minds of fans, making this weekend's series even more anticipated.
But just as you start to wonder if the Cubs will continue their streak, the Pirates have a few tricks up their sleeves. Carmen Mlodzinski, the Pirates' starting pitcher for the series opener, is known for his impressive performance on the mound.
Pitching Matchups and Key Players
The Pirates have announced their starting pitchers for the series, with Mlodzinski leading the charge in the opener. Braxton Garret is scheduled to pitch the second game, and Ken Carlson will take the mound for the final matchup. The Cubs, on the other hand, have some surprises of their own. Shota Imanaga, a key pitcher for the Cubs, is expected to give the Pirates a tough time.
The Cubs have been on a roll, winning their last two games and currently sitting at 6-6 overall and 3-3 at home. But the Pirates, who are 7-5 overall and 3-3 on the road this season, are not to be underestimated.
Look, I'm not saying the Cubs are complacent, but the Pirates have a way of making things interesting. Remember when they were 3-3 on the road this season? They have proven they can compete.
And then — get this — the Pirates' road record this season is a bit of a roller coaster. They're 3-3 on the road, which means they've got the grit to pull off some unexpected wins.
Historical Context and Recent Performances
The Cubs, despite their recent successes, have had a bit of a bumpy start to the 2026 season. They're 6-6 overall and 3-3 at home. But don't let that fool you; they're still a force to be reckoned with.
Here's the thing: the Cubs' recent victories over the Pirates, like the 4-1 win on September 16, 2025, have set a high bar. The Pirates, however, have shown resilience. They might be 7-5 overall, but they're 3-3 on the road, which means they're not afraid to travel and compete.
Here's a closing point from expert analysis: "The Cubs have the upper hand historically, but the Pirates' recent performances show they're capable of pulling off surprises. This series could go either way.
The upcoming series between the Cubs and Pirates is more than just a weekend of baseball; it's a battle between historical dominance and a team hungry for redemption. As the Cubs look to maintain their streak, the Pirates are ready to prove they can compete. Will the Cubs' home-field advantage be enough to secure another victory, or will the Pirates pull off some unexpected wins? The stage is set for an electrifying series that will surely keep fans on the edge of their seats.
