The Cubs Beat Padres Playoffs moment electrified baseball fans as the Chicago Cubs clinched a dramatic NL Wild Card Series victory on October 2, 2025. Wrigley Field roared as the Cubs secured a 3-1 win in Game 3, advancing to the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. With standout pitching, timely hitting, and passionate fan support, the Cubs Beat Padres Playoffs storyline showcased Chicago’s postseason grit. Let’s dive into how this series unfolded and what lies ahead for the Cubs.
Road to the Cubs NL Wild Card Series Showdown
Both teams entered the playoffs with momentum from solid regular seasons. The Cubs finished second in the NL Central with a 91-70 record, clinching home-field advantage for the NL Wild Card Series after a key win over the Cardinals. Meanwhile, the Padres, second in the NL West at 88-72, brought a potent lineup featuring stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado. The series, hosted at the historic Wrigley Field, promised intensity from the start.
Game 1 on September 30 set the tone. Seiya Suzuki and Carson Kelly smashed back-to-back home runs, powering the Cubs to a 3-1 win over the Padres. Chicago’s bullpen, including a crucial relief appearance, shut down San Diego’s threats. This early lead boosted fan morale, but the Padres responded fiercely in Game 2.
On October 1, San Diego evened the series with a 3-0 shutout. Machado’s two-run homer and dominant pitching from Dylan Cease and Mason Miller stifled the Cubs’ offense, limiting them to just four hits. The loss highlighted Chicago’s struggles against left-handed pitching, but manager Craig Counsell emphasized resilience heading into the winner-take-all Game 3. With everything on the line, the Cubs NL Wild Card Series fate hung in the balance.
Game 3 Drama: How Chicago Cubs Beat San Diego Padres
Game 3 on October 2 was a pitcher’s duel turned nail-biter. Yu Darvish took the mound for San Diego, facing off against Chicago’s strategic opener. Early on, Pete Crow-Armstrong delivered an RBI single, igniting a two-run rally in the second inning that chased Darvish after shaky command. Michael Busch added insurance with a solo home run in the seventh, giving the Cubs a 3-0 cushion at one point.
DANSBY THE FREAKING MANSBY. pic.twitter.com/ZusyKNKI5T
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) October 2, 2025
Jameson Taillon provided steady starting pitching, backed by a lockdown bullpen that neutralized threats from Tatis Jr. and Jackson Merrill. Defense shone too, with standout plays from Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner, and Crow-Armstrong robbing potential hits. However, tension peaked in the ninth when Merrill launched a solo homer, cutting the lead to 3-1. The Cubs held firm, securing the victory and advancing.
This win wasn’t just about stats; it embodied team grit. After dropping Game 2, players rallied with focused preparation. Fans’ energy at Wrigley amplified the atmosphere, creating an unforgettable scene. Consequently, the Cubs NL Wild Card Series success propelled them forward, proving their playoff mettle.
What Comes Next for the Cubs After Beating the Padres
Advancing to the NLDS against the Brewers reignites the I-94 rivalry, absent from this stage since 1982. Game 1 is set for October 4, where Chicago’s offense and revamped bullpen will face Milwaukee’s home advantage. Key contributors like Busch, who went 3-for-4 in Game 3, and Crow-Armstrong’s clutch hitting could be game-changers.
For the Padres, the loss stings after a promising season marred by injuries to key relievers and outfielders. Despite strong moments, offensive inconsistencies doomed them. Looking ahead, San Diego focuses on offseason adjustments to contend again.
The Cubs NL Wild Card Series victory sparks hope in Chicago. It’s a testament to smart trades, like acquiring relievers for high-leverage spots, and young talent stepping up. As October unfolds, expect deeper runs if momentum holds. Fans are buzzing, with “Fly the W” flags waving high. This beatdown of the Padres is just the beginning of what could be a memorable playoff journey.
About the Author
