The Chicago Cubs continue their West Coast trip Saturday night against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Chicago sends Cade Horton to the mound against Victor Mederos in what could be a mismatch on paper. First pitch is 9:38 p.m. ET.
Game Info
- When: Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 9:38 p.m. ET
- Where: Angel Stadium, Anaheim
- TV: FDSW, MARQ
- Pitchers: Cade Horton (7-4, 3.08 ERA) vs Victor Mederos (0-1, 5.54 ERA)
Pitching Edge Goes to Chicago
This one’s pretty lopsided on the mound. Cade Horton has been excellent for the Cubs with a 7-4 record and 3.08 ERA. He’s been throwing well lately and should give Chicago a good chance to win.
Victor Mederos is still trying to find his footing in the majors. He’s 0-1 with a 5.54 ERA in limited action, so the Cubs’ hitters will be licking their chops.
Offensive Matchup
Chicago has the better offense overall, with higher averages and more power. Nico Hoerner has been hitting consistently, while Pete Crow-Armstrong leads the team in home runs. Dansby Swanson and Seiya Suzuki have been driving in runs too.
The Angels lean heavily on Taylor Ward, who’s got 29 homers this year and can change a game with one swing. Nolan Schanuel has been their most consistent hitter average-wise, but they need more production from the rest of the lineup.
Betting Lines
Vegas likes the Cubs here, making them -145 favorites with LA at +123. The total sits at 10 runs, which seems about right given the pitching matchup.
Chicago has been solid when favored this year and plays well on the road against struggling teams. The Angels haven’t been great at home, especially against good NL Central teams.
Most models give the Cubs about a 60% chance to win, with a possible 6-5 final score. The Cubs moneyline looks like the safer play.
Injury Notes
Both teams are dealing with some key injuries. Chicago is missing Miguel Amaya and Justin Steele, while the Angels are without Anthony Rendón and Ben Joyce. Nothing that should drastically change the outlook though.
The Bottom Line
Hard to bet against Horton in this spot. The Cubs have the better pitcher, better offense, and better record. Should be Chicago’s game to lose.
Let´s go Cubs!