Venue: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Doubleheader Start Times:
- Game 1: 2:20 PM ET
- Game 2: 7:05 PM ET
Broadcast: MLB Network, Marquee Sports Network, Bally Sports Wisconsin
Series Overview
The top two teams in the NL Central square off in a crucial five-game series, starting with a day-night doubleheader. The Brewers, fresh off a 14-game win streak that ended Sunday, hold an 8-game lead over the Cubs, who are clinging to the top Wild Card spot. The season series is tied 4–4, making this a pivotal stretch for both clubs.
Game 1 Pitching Matchup
| Team | Starter | Record | ERA | WHIP | K |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brewers | Freddy Peralta | 14-5 | 2.90 | 1.12 | 148 |
| Cubs | Cade Horton | 7-3 | 3.07 | 1.18 | 67 |
- Peralta has allowed just 1 run over his last 11 IP and owns a 3.42 ERA in 21 career games vs. Chicago.
- Horton has led the Cubs to wins in 11 of his 16 outings and has allowed only 1 run over his last 28.1 IP.
Team Trends & Stats
| Category | Brewers | Cubs |
|---|---|---|
| Last 10 Games | 9-1 | 6-4 |
| Batting Avg | .261 | .247 |
| Team ERA | 3.41 | 2.48 (last 8 games) |
| Road/Home Record | 36-25 | 38-23 |
| Run Differential Since July 27 | +70 | — |
- Milwaukee’s rotation has been elite, and their offense has surged since June (.739 OPS).
- Chicago’s pitching has carried them lately, but their offense has slumped (.681 OPS in second half).
Players to Watch
- Brewers:
- Sal Frelick: .294 AVG, 9 HR, 18 SB
- Andrew Vaughn: 1.001 OPS, 9 HR in 31 games since joining
- Christian Yelich: 28 HR, 84 RBI
- Cubs:
- Nico Hoerner: .293 AVG, 20 doubles, 22 SB
- Pete Crow-Armstrong: 5-for-8 last weekend, breaking out of slump
- Dansby Swanson: Clutch RBI in Sunday’s win
Game 1 Odds
Milwaukee Brewers 8
Chicago Cubs – 119
Game 2 Odds
Milwaukee Brewers 9
Chicago Cubs – 126
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Sunday, August 17, 2025
