Chicago Cubs vs Tampa Bay Rays Picks and Predictions For Monday April 6 2026

By: Jeremy O'Quinn Published 04/06/2026, 12:40 AM ET

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Cubs Preview

The Chicago Cubs will travel to Tropicana Field on Monday, where they’ll open a series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Get the rest of our free MLB picks here! Chicago enters this matchup with a 4-5 record on the young 2026 season, while Tampa Bay looks to kick off its home slate with momentum in what will be a key early-season interleague matchup. Chicago is averaging just under five runs per game so far and has been competitive in most outings, but late-game execution has been an issue. Chicago is expected to send Justin Steele to the mound on Monday. In the 2025 season, Steele posted a 14-9 record with a 3.21 ERA, continuing to establish himself as the ace of the Cubs’ rotation.

Rays Preview

The Rays enter this game eager to make a statement at home, and they remain one of the more well-rounded teams in the American League. Tampa Bay has built its identity around pitching depth and timely hitting, and early signs in 2026 suggest more of the same. Tampa Bay is projected to counter with Shane McClanahan on the mound. Last season, McClanahan went 11-7 with a 3.45 ERA, striking out well over a batter per inning and remaining one of the top left-handed starters in the league. He is expected to be lined up for this home opener matchup, marking an important return to Tropicana Field for the Rays’ ace.

Rays vs Cubs Pick

Tampa Bay will be hunting for their third straight victory in this one, while the Cubs hope to shake off a recent loss against Cleveland. Expect Chicago to shut the door on the Rays bats, as the Cubs cover the -1.5 spread here. Final score prediction, Rays win 4-2.

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