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The Chicago Cubs and Oakland Athletics are set to clash today in an early season MLB contest that could provide crucial momentum for both squads. First pitch is scheduled for 3:35 PM ET at the Athletics' home ballpark.

The pitching matchup features J. Taillon taking the mound for the Cubs against J. Springs for the Athletics. Both hurlers will be looking to establish themselves as the 2025 MLB season begins to take shape.

According to the latest odds, Oakland enters as slight favorites with a -125 moneyline, while Chicago sits at +105. The run line shows the Cubs at +1.5 (-205) and the Athletics at -1.5 (+170), suggesting oddsmakers expect a competitive contest. The total has been set at 8.5 runs with equal -110 odds on both the over and under.

Both teams are seeking to build momentum in the early days of the baseball calendar. The game offers various betting opportunities across multiple markets, including in-game options, alternate lines, and pitcher prop bets.

Analysts at Statbet have identified this as one of today's most intriguing matchups, with both teams deploying solid starting pitchers who could dictate the pace of play throughout the afternoon.

Baseball fans will be watching closely as Taillon and the Cubs look to overcome their underdog status, while the Athletics aim to defend their home field behind Springs' pitching performance in what promises to be an engaging midday showdown.