Cubs vs. Phillies prediction and odds for Friday, May 19 (Bet on offense)

The Chicago Cubs are doing their best to get back on track after a rough month that followed a hot start to the 2023 campaign.

Now, they'll begin a series against another disappointing National League team, the Philadelphia Phillies, who have a losing record just over six months after representing the NL in the World Series.

Friday's action will see Marcus Stroman (3.24 ERA) take on Phillies lefty, Ranger Suarez (6.75 ERA).

Let's take a look at the odds for Friday's matchup.

Cubs vs. Phillies odds, run line, and total

Cubs vs. Phillies prediction and pick

Both pitchers could be in for a tough game on Friday.

The Phillies have been much more successful when facing right-handed pitchers this season while the Cubs have been more potent against left-handed pitchers. In this game, they'll get to utilize their strengths.

The Phillies OPS increases from .690 against lefties to .767 against righties. Now, they get to take on righty, Marcus Stroman, who is coming off a start where he allowed six earned runs in just 2.2 innings against the Twins.

On the other side of things, the Cubs' OPS increases from .749 against right-handed pitchers to .822 against left-handed pitchers, which is the third best mark against lefties in the Major. On Friday, they should be able to tee off against Suarez, who allowed seven hits and three earned runs across only 4.0 innings in his first start.

That is enough for me to take the OVER in this National League showdown. Let's root for runs.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.