Cubs vs Reds Prediction 6 May 2026
📡 Chicago welcome Cincinnati once again after two dramatic back-to-back victories in this series. First, the Cubs claimed a 5-4 walk-off win thanks to Michael Conforto's home run, followed by a 3-2 victory on Tuesday in the tenth inning, courtesy of Michael Busch. The hosts have extended their overall winning streak to seven games, and their home streak to 13, marking their longest run at Wrigley Field since 2008. This backdrop is crucial for making a well-founded prediction for the third game.
Head-to-Head
📊 The recent series has been all about Chicago pulling through in the final moments. Cincinnati came close twice, with genuine chances to clinch the game, but on both occasions, the Cubs found a late answer. On Tuesday, the Reds led 2-0 following solo home runs by JJ Bleday and Nathaniel Lowe. However, Chicago first narrowed the gap, then leveled the score with a Bush home run, and eventually sealed the win in the tenth inning. For Cincinnati, these aren't just losses; they're accumulating fatigue from missed opportunities in the closing stages.
Head-to-head statistics Cubs - Reds

Chicago Cubs Team Overview
The hosts are currently playing with the confidence of a team that believes in any scenario. Even when the game doesn't go perfectly, the Cubs remain composed, patiently waiting for their opportunity in the late innings. Michael Busch emerged as the hero on Tuesday: first leveling the score with a solo home run, then clinching the victory with a single in the tenth inning. It's also crucial to note that Chicago is maintaining their series not only through offense but thanks to their relievers as well: Ryan Rolison delivered a scoreless tenth inning, improving his personal record to 3-0. Given their home series and current form, backing the hosts seems like a reasonable bet.
Match Results: Chicago Cubs

Cincinnati Reds Team Overview
The visitors approach the third game of the series after enduring five consecutive losses, with the last two defeats being particularly painful. Cincinnati led twice in Chicago, only to squander both games in the final stages. Adding to their woes is the injury to Emilio Pagán; the Reds' closer was taken off the field due to a hamstring injury, significantly disrupting their late-inning structure. Even if the starting pitcher provides a solid foundation once more, the visitors now face numerous questions regarding their relievers and overall mental state as they head into the closing innings.
Match Results: Cincinnati Reds
⚾ Starting Pitchers
Chicago are sending Colin Rea to the mound. According to theScore's pregame listing, he holds a 4-1 record with a 4.41 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP. Notably, MLB highlights that at Wrigley Field this season, he's 2-0 with a 3.00 ERA over three appearances, including two starts. While not elite, he's a solid home option. For the current Cubs, this level of performance suffices, as long as Rea avoids surrendering a big inning early and allows the offense to capitalize on their opportunities.
Cincinnati counter with Brady Singer. As per theScore, he carries a 2-2 record with a 5.57 ERA and a 1.73 WHIP. DraftKings' pregame analysis pointed out that over his last 8.2 innings against Detroit and Pittsburgh, he allowed four home runs. This is a concerning profile heading into Wrigley Field against a hot Chicago side. If Singer continues to give up hard contact, the Cubs will have a strong chance to avoid another nail-biting finish.
⭐ Editorial Prediction
There are several factors favoring Chicago here. The Cubs have won seven consecutive games and boast 13 straight home victories. They've already outplayed Cincinnati twice in the late innings of this series. The hosts have a more favorable starting scenario: Rea performs better at home compared to Singer in the current stretch. Meanwhile, the Reds are dealing with a significant issue in the closing stages following Pagan's injury, which is particularly problematic against a team that has clinched late wins two days in a row. We believe it's wise to back a Chicago Cubs victory here.
