Game 1 of the NLDS between the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers is set to take place at American Family Field in Milwaukee. This marks the beginning of a best-of-5 series with both teams eager to secure an early lead. The game will be broadcast on TBS at 2:08 PM on Saturday, October 4, 2025.
The Chicago Cubs, managed by Craig Counsell, finished their regular season with a 92-70 record, placing them 5 games behind the top spot in the NL Central. Despite a moderate road record of 42-39, the Cubs have shown recent strength with a win over the San Diego Padres in their latest game. Key performers like Michael Busch and Carson Kelly have been instrumental in their postseason surge.
The Milwaukee Brewers, under the guidance of manager Pat Murphy, ended the regular season with an impressive 97-65 record. Their home advantage at American Family Field is significant, as they posted a 52-29 home record during the season. Recent performances have been mixed, with a notable win against the Cincinnati Reds in their last regular-season game, driven by key contributions from players like Danny Jansen and Jackson Chourio.
Brewers vs Cubs NLDS 1 At a Glance
- Game Context: This is Game 1 of the NLDS, with the series tied 0-0 between the Cubs and Brewers.
- Venue: American Family Field in Milwaukee, WI, featuring a retractable roof.
- Weather: Forecast indicates a warm day with clear skies and a light breeze.
- Broadcast Info: The game is scheduled for 2:08 PM and will be televised on TBS.
- Team Records: Chicago Cubs ended the regular season with a 92-70 record, while the Milwaukee Brewers recorded 97-65.
- Game Odds: Brewers are favored with a moneyline of -155; Cubs are at +132.
Milwaukee Brewers Ready for the Cubs Showdown
Chicago Cubs: Offensive Analysis
The Chicago Cubs enter this postseason matchup with the Milwaukee Brewers coming off a hard-fought series victory over the San Diego Padres. Their offense has been consistent, though not overwhelming, as they rely on timely hitting and a balanced lineup. Despite a 92-70 regular-season record, they secured their spot in the playoffs with key contributions from players like Nico Hoerner and Seiya Suzuki.
The Cubs’ offense ranks well in batting average, holding a .258 mark for the season, placing them second in the league. Their ability to get on base is supported by a .331 on-base percentage, also second-best in MLB. However, their power numbers are more modest, with a slugging percentage of .403 and 166 home runs, ranking 19th in the league.
Cubs’ Key Players to Watch
Nico Hoerner is a standout player for the Cubs, providing consistent offensive output with a blend of contact hitting and speed on the basepaths. Alongside him, Seiya Suzuki has delivered power and run production in the heart of the lineup, making him a critical piece of the Cubs’ offensive puzzle.
The Cubs’ ability to manufacture runs will be pivotal against the Brewers’ strong pitching staff. Ian Happ and Cody Bellinger add veteran presence and experience, which will be crucial in high-pressure playoff situations. Their contributions in the middle of the lineup could determine the Cubs’ success in advancing past Milwaukee.
Cubs Pitching: A Solid Foundation
Matthew Boyd is set to start for the Cubs, boasting a 3.21 ERA and a WHIP of 1.09 across his 2025 campaign. Boyd’s consistency and ability to limit baserunners have been key to his 14-8 win-loss record this season. His effectiveness against the Brewers will be a focal point, especially given the Brewers’ offensive challenges late in the season.
While Boyd anchors the rotation, the Cubs’ bullpen depth will be tested, especially after a taxing series against the Padres. The Cubs’ staff must navigate the Brewers’ lineup, which includes formidable hitters like Christian Yelich and Brice Turang, to secure a win.
Chicago Cubs: Betting Trends
- The Cubs have a winning record when Matthew Boyd starts, with a 14-8 team record in his outings.
- Chicago has struggled on the road against teams with a winning record, which could impact their performance at American Family Field.
- In games with a total set at 8 or fewer runs, the Cubs have tended to hit the under, highlighting their reliance on strong pitching performances.
Cubs Look to Continue Momentum Against the Brewers in NLDS
Milwaukee Brewers Overview
The Milwaukee Brewers finished the regular season with a 97-65 record, clinching the NL Central title. Known for their strong pitching staff, the Brewers will rely heavily on their rotation and bullpen to contain the Cubs’ offense. Despite a dominant season, the Brewers struggled in September, which might affect their postseason performance.
The Brewers’ offense is led by key contributors who have the capability to change the game with one swing. However, they will need to address their inconsistency at the plate to avoid putting extra pressure on their pitching staff.
Key Players to Watch
Freddy Peralta is the Brewers’ Game 1 starter, bringing a 2.70 ERA and 10.39 K/9 to the mound. Peralta has faced the Cubs four times this year, allowing 8 earned runs across 21 innings. His ability to maintain composure and command will be crucial in setting the tone for the series.
Quinn Priester, stepping in due to Brandon Woodruff’s injury, will also play a significant role in the series. Priester’s ability to adapt quickly in high-pressure situations will be tested against a Cubs lineup that has shown resilience in recent games.
Brewers’ Offensive Challenges
The Brewers’ lineup features several power hitters, but their performance has been inconsistent. Their ability to produce runs against Cubs pitching, which has been solid in recent outings, will be a critical factor in the series. The Brewers will need to capitalize on scoring opportunities to support their pitchers.
With the Cubs’ strong defense, Milwaukee’s hitters will have to be patient and strategic at the plate. Finding ways to manufacture runs could be the key to gaining an edge over the Cubs’ pitching staff.
Brewers’ Pitching Strategy
Milwaukee’s bullpen is ranked third in baseball by fWAR, making it one of their greatest strengths. Late-game situations may heavily rely on their relievers’ ability to hold the Cubs at bay. How effectively the Brewers manage their bullpen usage will be crucial to their success.
Given the Cubs’ offensive capabilities, especially in key moments, the Brewers’ pitching staff must minimize mistakes and maintain control to prevent giving the Cubs any momentum.
Brewers Betting Trends
- Record in Last 10 Games: 5-5
- Performance Against Cubs This Season: 6-7
- Recent Struggles in September: Finished 12-12
- Strong Home Performance Throughout Season
Brewers vs Cubs Prediction: Brewers -155
The Milwaukee Brewers are set to take on the Chicago Cubs in Game 1 of the NLDS, and the odds favor the Brewers at -155. The Brewers’ impressive regular season record of 97-65, especially their strong home performance at 52-29, positions them well for a win. Their ace, Freddy Peralta, boasts a 17-6 record with a 2.70 ERA, presenting a formidable challenge for the Cubs lineup.
Despite the Cubs’ momentum from their wild card series win over the Padres, they face a challenging match against the Brewers. The Cubs’ Matthew Boyd, starting on short rest, has struggled against the Brewers this season, allowing 9 earned runs over 10 innings. This, combined with the Cubs’ road record of 42-39, makes it difficult to back them in this situation.
The Brewers’ balanced lineup, along with their home advantage and Peralta’s proven track record against the Cubs, suggests a strong likelihood of a Brewers win. The absence of Brandon Woodruff is a concern, but Peralta’s consistency should provide the stability Milwaukee needs to open the series with a victory.
Given these factors, the Brewers are the pick to win this game, with a projected final score of Brewers 4, Cubs 2. The Brewers’ strength at home and Peralta’s dominance in crucial games will likely be the difference maker.
- Brewers vs Cubs Prediction: Brewers -155
- Brewers vs Cubs Score: Brewers 4 – Cubs 2
