Cubs vs Reds Prediction, MLB Prop Bets and Parlay Picks Friday, 5/23

Oscar Diaz

· May 23 - 3 minutes read

Chicago Cubs

Cincinnati Reds

-1½ +148

Run Line

+1½ -170

-108

Moneyline

-102

O 8½ -105

Total

U 8½ -115

Place your Bets on Cubs vs Reds at BetUS Sportsbook!

Cubs vs Reds Prediction, MLB Prop Bets and Parlay Picks Friday, 5/23 — Hunter Greene #21 of the Cincinnati Reds | Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images/AFP

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Best Cubs vs Reds pick is the game hitting over 8.5 runs.
A prop on Hunter Greene getting 8+ strikeouts has big upside

Cubs vs Reds Prediction and Best Bets Today, May 23

My prediction

Moneyline Pick: Reds (-101)

Despite being under .500, the Reds have the better ERA, WHIP, and opponent batting average — and they’re sending out Hunter Greene, who’s struck out 61 in just 45.2 innings. The Cubs’ lineup is powerful, but they’re on the road after a long Miami series. Cincinnati’s bullpen and pitching staff match up well, and Greene’s been dominant at home. This is a toss-up with value on the home side—great spot in today’s MLB betting odds landscape.

For MLB futures betting, keep an eye on these odds for the series price as well, with value on the Reds this weekend.

Bet on Reds ML (-101)

Cubs vs Reds Over 8.5 Runs

This total is too low for two teams that average nearly nine combined runs per game. The Cubs lead MLB in runs per game and slugging, while the Reds are above average in power and extra-base hits. Both starters are solid, but Greene and Boyd have allowed 7 home runs each, and both bullpens are vulnerable late.

Bet on Cubs vs Reds Over 8.5

My Best Prop Bets

Elly De La Cruz Over 2+ Total Bases (+138)

De La Cruz has 33 RBIs, eight home runs, and elite speed, and he’s heating up with hits in 7 of his last 10. Against a lefty like Boyd, his .404 slugging and big-swing approach could lead to a double or better. He’s also a threat to stretch singles into extra bases with his legs. Among all MLB prop bets today, this one brings multi-path upside via power or wheels.

Bet on Elly De La Cruz 2+ Total Bases (+138)

Hunter Greene 8+ Strikeouts (+220)

Greene owns a 0.81 WHIP and 61 strikeouts in 45.2 innings, and the Cubs rank 27th in strikeout rate. His velocity and command can overwhelm even elite lineups, and this one has plenty of swing-and-miss in the bottom half. At home, Greene’s numbers jump even more. This is a sharp spot if you’re following MLB news today for high-K props. Greene has hit 8+ strikeouts in 3 of his last 5 starts.

Bet on Hunter Greene 8+ Strikeouts (+220)