The New York Mets are in desperate need of a turnaround as they head to the iconic Wrigley Field this Friday to open a three-game set against the Chicago Cubs. The Mets are reeling, carrying an eight-game losing streak into the series after being swept by both the Dodgers and Athletics. Their road record sits at 4-6, and they'll face a Cubs team that just took two of three from the Phillies and has won three of its last four. With the Cubs holding a 213-181 historical edge at home in this matchup, the stage is set for a pivotal early-season clash.

First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET, with the Cubs installed as -144 favorites on the money line. The over/under for total runs is set at 10.5. For bettors and fans looking for an edge, the proven SportsLine projection model, which simulates every MLB game 10,000 times, has analyzed this matchup and locked in its picks.

The model, which was highly profitable on top-rated money-line picks last season, is leaning towards a lower-scoring affair. After running its simulations, it recommends taking the Under on the 10.5-run total. This aligns with recent trends, as the total has gone Under in four of the Mets' last six games and in five of their last five games against National League Central opponents. For the model's specific money-line pick and all its detailed analysis, you'll need to visit SportsLine.