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Cubs Clinch NLDS Spot with 3-1 Win Over Padres

10/3/2025

31 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Cubs Advance Playoffs

The Cubs beat the Padres 3-1 in Game 3 to reach the National League Division Series (NLDS) for the first time since 2017, and will face the Milwaukee Brewers.
Jameson Taillon pitched four shutout innings as the Cubs bullpen allowed one run in the ninth.
Pete Crow-Armstrong had an RBI single and Michael Busch hit a solo homer for insurance.

Summary

Counsell Trusts Imanaga

Cubs manager Craig Counsell left Shota Imanaga to face Manny Machado in Game 2.
Manny Machado hit a two-run homer.
The Cubs lost 3-0 to the Padres.
Counsell defended the decision, saying he trusted Imanaga while Mike Soroka was ready.
Game 3 at Wrigley Field will feature Jameson Taillon against former pitcher Yu Darvish, with the series tied.

History

Historical Context

The Chicago Cubs' 108-year championship drought ended in 2016 when they won the World Series, marking their first title since 1908. Under manager Joe Maddon, the team achieved a 103-win season that year. In 2023, the Cubs returned to the postseason, demonstrating resilience and strategic changes under manager Craig Counsell, as they aim to reestablish themselves as a competitive force in Major League Baseball.

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Cubs Advance Playoffs

The Cubs beat the Padres 3-1 in Game 3 to reach the National League Division Series (NLDS) for the first time since 2017, and will face the Milwaukee Brewers.
Jameson Taillon pitched four shutout innings as the Cubs bullpen allowed one run in the ninth.
Pete Crow-Armstrong had an RBI single and Michael Busch hit a solo homer for insurance.

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