The Chicago Cubs celebrated a significant victory over the San Diego Padres on Thursday night at Wrigley Field, winning 3-1 to clinch Game 3 of their National League Wild Card Series. This win marks the Cubs’ first postseason series triumph since 2017, the year following their historic World Series win.
Looking ahead, the Cubs are set to face their rivals, the Milwaukee Brewers, in the National League Division Series. This matchup is particularly noteworthy, as it will be the first time these two teams have met in a playoff series, and it involves a reunion for Cubs’ manager Craig Counsell, who previously managed the Brewers.
The Brewers secured the division title, finishing five games ahead of the Cubs, but Chicago managed to edge them in the season series 7-6. Counsell has the distinction of being Milwaukee’s winningest manager, boasting 707 wins and three division titles between 2015 and 2023.
The upcoming series will commence with Game 1 at 1:08 p.m. CT on Saturday in Milwaukee, followed by Game 2 on Monday at 8:08 p.m. CT. If necessary, Game 3 will take place in Chicago on Wednesday, with potential Games 4 and 5 scheduled for October 9 and October 11, respectively.
For fans wanting to catch the action live, tickets for the Cubs’ home games in the Division Series will go on sale at 1 p.m. on Friday, with distribution through the MLB app. Additionally, watch parties hosted by the Cubs at Gallagher Way, adjacent to Wrigley Field, will provide an alternative viewing option for fans unable to attend. With a $10 entry fee that benefits Cubs Charities, these events promise drinks, snacks, and entertainment.
As the Cubs step into this thrilling matchup against the Brewers, the excitement builds not just for the players but for the entire fanbase. With the Cubs’ recent playoff success and the prospect of a historic series against a long-time rival, supporters are looking forward to an unforgettable postseason experience. The games will be broadcasted on TBS and truTV, also available for streaming on HBO Max.
The postseason format this year sees a total of 12 teams vying for the championship, now narrowed down to eight. The two teams with the best records in each league advanced directly to the Division Series with home-field advantage. This year’s playoffs are particularly competitive, with many teams eager to fight for a chance to reach the World Series.
As the playoffs unfold, the Cubs hold a respectable position among the teams vying for the title, with odds of +750 according to BetMGM Sportsbook, reflecting a hopeful outlook for fans as they rally behind their team.