MLB Game Preview: Chicago Cubs (19-13) vs. Milwaukee Brewers (16-16)

The Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers are set to open a three-game series on May 2, 2025, at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. CT, with the game broadcast live on Apple TV+.

The Cubs have won three of their last four series, while the Brewers are coming off a 4-6 road trip.

Starting Pitchers

Chicago Cubs – Ben Brown (2-2, 6.04 ERA)

Brown has struggled this season, posting a 6.04 ERA across five starts. He allowed six earned runs in his last outing against Philadelphia, lasting just 3.2 innings.

Milwaukee Brewers – Quinn Priester (1-0, 3.79 ERA)

Priester has been solid, recording a 3.79 ERA in his first few starts. He has a 4.29 FIP, indicating he has been slightly lucky with run prevention.

Team Form and Key Players

Chicago Cubs

Chicago has been strong offensively, ranking third in MLB in home runs (46) and second in OPS (.799).

Key Players:

• Seiya Suzuki – Leads the Cubs with nine home runs, including three in his last series.
• Kyle Tucker – Has eight home runs and 28 RBIs, providing consistent power.
• Carson Kelly – Surprisingly productive, hitting seven home runs in just 50 at-bats.

Milwaukee Brewers

Milwaukee has been inconsistent, ranking 18th in OPS (.692) and 19th in home runs (27).

Key Players:

• Jackson Chourio – Batting .263 with six home runs and 24 RBIs, but struggling with strikeouts.
• Brice Turang – A steady presence, hitting over .300 this season.
• William Contreras – Has three home runs and 18 RBIs, looking to spark the offense.

Key Matchups and Strategies

1. Brown vs. Brewers’ Offense – Milwaukee has struggled with power hitting, making Brown’s ability to limit damage crucial.
2. Priester vs. Cubs’ Power Hitters – Chicago ranks third in MLB in slugging percentage, making Priester’s ability to keep the ball in the park vital.
3. Bullpen Battle – Milwaukee’s bullpen has been inconsistent, ranking 26th in relief ERA (4.90).
4. Home vs. Away Performance – Milwaukee has been strong at home (9-4 record), while Chicago has been solid on the road (10-6 record).

Game Odds

Chicago Cubs                     – 120

Milwaukee Brewers       8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 1, 2025