The New York Mets host the Chicago Cubs for Game 2 of their three-game series in the Big Apple. The hosts overwhelmed the visitors, claiming the victory in the opener, 7-2.New York's impressive pitching crew proved to be the deciding factor as they limited the high-octane Chicago offense to a pair of runs. At the time of writing, the former's pitching staff holds the second-best ERA in the league at 2.82.On the other hand, the Cubs suffered their third-straight loss after dropping the last two games against the Giants, together with the opener in New York last night.Mets vs Cubs recent form and recordsAlthough they dropped their most recent series against the Diamondbacks, the Mets still have firm command of the NL East lead. The Queens-based squad holds a 25-14 record. They've also made Citi Field a fortress as they've won 14 out of a possible 17 games on their home turf.The Cubs, meanwhile, are on a bit of a rough stretch with three straight defeats. Nevertheless, they still lead the NL Central with a 22-17 record and an impressive 12-8 record away from home.Players to watchStarting pitchersNYM: Tylor Megill (3-2, 2.50 ERA, 45 K), CHC: Brad Keller (0-0, 3.78 ERA, 18 K)New York MetsTylor Megill has posted an impressive stat line to start the 2025 season. The 29-year-old currently holds 2.50 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 45 strikeouts across 36 innings. Megill also owns a 3-2 record in seven starts.Must-Watch HittersChicago CubsAll-Star right fielder Kyle Tucker is slowly building another MVP-caliber season. He owns a .283/.392/.559 slash line with an OPS of .951. In addition, Tucker has already tallied ten home runs, 32 RBIs, eight doubles, two triples and 10 stolen bases in less than 40 games this year.Mets vs Cubs baseball betting oddsSaturday, 5/10Money LineRun SpreadTotal RunsNYM-135-1.5, +139O 8.5, -131CHC+122+1.5, -171U 8.5, +108Mets vs Cubs expert picks and game predictionThe work has been cut out for New York starter Tylor Megill. He will be expected to neutralize the high-paced Chicago Cubs offense. Likewise, Brad Keller would have a tough day on the mound if he fails to stifle the New York offense early on.Bookmakers favor the Metropolitans given the Cubs' recent form. It also helps that the Juan Soto-led squad has just lost three of 17 games at home. Expect the Cubs to throw everything and the kitchen sink at the hosts to break their slump.Run Line: +1.5, -171Total Runs: U 8.5, +108Prediction: CHC wins, 5-3