The Milwaukee Brewers (79-48) and Chicago Cubs (73-54) are set to clash in a crucial five-game series starting August 18, 2025, at Wrigley Field. With the Brewers holding a significant lead in the NL Central, this series presents a vital opportunity for the Cubs to close the gap and solidify their playoff position. Both teams have seen offensive surges and rely on strong pitching, making this a highly anticipated matchup.
Key Takeaways
- The Brewers lead the NL Central by eight games over the Cubs.
- Milwaukee boasts the second-best rotation ERA in baseball (3.41).
- Chicago’s offense has shown recent improvement, but consistency remains key.
- Several key players are on the injured list for both teams.
Pitching Matchups and Probable Starters
The series opener on Thursday, August 21, features a compelling pitching duel between the Brewers’ Quinn Priester (11-2, 3.48 ERA) and the Cubs’ Shota Imanaga (8-5, 3.06 ERA). Priester has been a strong performer for Milwaukee, while Imanaga aims to continue his solid season for Chicago.
Injury Reports
Milwaukee Brewers:
- Jackson Chourio (Hamstring) – 10-Day IL
- Jake Bauers (Shoulder) – 10-Day IL
- Rhys Hoskins (Thumb) – 10-Day IL
- D.L. Hall (Oblique) – 15-Day IL
- Rob Zastryzny (Ribs) – 15-Day IL
- Logan Henderson (Elbow) – 15-Day IL
- Garrett Mitchell (Oblique) – 60-Day IL
- Robert Gasser (Elbow) – 60-Day IL
- Connor Thomas (Elbow) – 60-Day IL
- Jordan Montgomery (Elbow) – 60-Day IL
Chicago Cubs:
- Miguel Amaya (Ankle) – 10-Day IL
- Mike Soroka (Shoulder) – 15-Day IL
- Cade Horton (Finger) – Day-to-day
- Eli Morgan (Elbow) – 60-Day IL
- Justin Steele (Elbow) – 60-Day IL
Team Performance and Offensive Insights
In their last 10 games, both teams have posted a 6-4 record. The Brewers have shown a stronger offensive output, hitting .274 with 15 home runs and a .466 slugging percentage. Their pitching staff has maintained a solid 3.03 ERA. The Cubs, meanwhile, are hitting .195 with 6 home runs and a .303 slugging percentage over the same span, though their pitching has been slightly better with a 2.97 ERA.
Series Outlook
While the Brewers have a comfortable lead, the Cubs are fighting to stay in the Wild Card race. A strong performance in this series is crucial for Chicago to maintain playoff hopes. The Brewers, despite their dominance, will be looking to prove their mettle against a motivated Cubs squad.