The Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, two of Major League Baseball’s biggest rivals, are set to clash this week in their first meeting of the 2025 season. The anticipation builds for this matchup, as both teams have been navigating the complexities of a challenging schedule and inconsistent performances.
As of now, the Cubs have played 77 games while the Cardinals have played 78, and all 13 matchups between these rivals remain, culminating in three final games at Wrigley Field at the end of the season. This season’s dynamic has led to intriguing narratives for both teams.
The Cardinals have shown a perplexing mix of potential and setbacks. Recently, they faced a six-game losing streak, putting them in a position to potentially become sellers in the trade market. However, a turnaround with a 5-1 record in the past week has reignited hopes, as they find themselves 4½ games behind the Cubs in the tightly contested NL Central.
St. Louis’s pitching rotation will feature Matthew Liberatore, Erick Fedde, Andre Pallante, and Sonny Gray. While Liberatore has struggled with consistency and fatigue, Gray has emerged as the ace of the staff, capable of turning the tide in crucial moments. The Cardinals’ defense, leading the league in Outs Above Average, strengthens their pitching efforts.
Offensively, the team has faced challenges with injuries, such as Ivan Herrera’s absence, but Willson Contreras is regaining his form, and Brendan Donovan has been a standout despite dealing with minor injuries.
Fans can expect a captivating four-game set where every play and pitch could hold significant weight. The Cubs and Cardinals have met a staggering 2,513 times, with the Cubs holding a slight edge in wins. The intensity of this rivalry is unmatched, and as the saying goes, “When the Cubs and Cardinals meet, every game feels like a playoff.”
Excitement is high, not just for the game, but for the drama that inevitably accompanies this storied rivalry. It’s a chance for both teams to make significant statements as they vie for positioning in a competitive division. This week’s games promise to combine the artistry of baseball with the thrill of fierce competition.
Probable pitching matchups include Ben Brown against Matthew Liberatore on Monday, and Jameson Taillon facing Erick Fedde on Tuesday, with further matchups yet to be announced. The series begins each day at 6:45 p.m. CT, making for an electrifying week ahead for fans of both teams.
This series offers a renewed opportunity to rewrite narratives and create lasting memories, making the excitement palpable as the Cubs and Cardinals set foot on the diamond once more.