Chicago Cubs vs Atlanta Braves Prediction: Division Leaders Begin Big National League Series
Updated July 9, 2026
The Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves open a high-level National League series Tuesday night at Truist Park. Chicago enters with one of the best records in baseball after a dominant stretch that included a 10-game winning streak, while Atlanta has continued to pile up wins behind elite pitching and a dangerous middle of the lineup. Which of these first-place teams will get a win in this contest? Continue reading to find my Cubs vs Braves prediction right here.
Colin Rea has given the Cubs valuable innings early in the season, posting a 4-1 record with an ERA slightly above 4.00 entering Tuesday night. He has done a solid job limiting damage, though Atlanta is a difficult assignment because of its ability to put the ball in play and create pressure throughout the lineup. The Braves have several hitters swinging well, especially Matt Olson and Michael Harris II, and Rea has occasionally struggled against left-handed power.
Grant Holmes will get the start for the Atlanta Braves. He comes into this game with a 2-1 record and an ERA of 4.34 on the year. There isn't a ton to separate these two starting pitchers in terms of run prevention early in the season. But both pitchers have been vulnerable to home runs early and keeping the ball in the yard will be the key to this contest.
This game has the ingredients of a tight contest deep into the late innings. Chicago’s lineup is capable of producing against any pitcher in baseball, and the Cubs have shown impressive balance through the first quarter of the season. Still, Atlanta enters with a dangerous lineup and the advantage of playing at home, where its offense tends to generate extra power production. I'll go with the Braves to get a win at home, as they should get a third consecutive victory and continue to build momentum against tough competition in the National League.
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