Milwaukee Brewers vs. Chicago Cubs NLDS Game 3 Preview: Brewers Look to Sweep Cubs and Advance to NLCS – October 8, 2025

Wednesday, October 8th, 2025

Milwaukee Brewers at Chicago Cubs: NLDS Game 3 Preview

The tension is high at Wrigley Field as the Chicago Cubs host the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 3 of the National League Division Series. The Brewers lead the series 2-0 and are just one win away from advancing to the NLCS. With the Cubs facing elimination, expect an intense battle between these NL Central rivals.

Weather

Today at Wrigley Field, expect cool October baseball conditions with temperatures in the mid-50s, partly cloudy skies, and no significant chance of precipitation. Winds will be moderate from the northwest at 12 mph, which could impact fly balls and fielding. It's a good day for a jacket and some exciting fall baseball.

Matchup Overview

The Cubs finished the regular season with a 50-31 record at home and an overall mark of 92-70, earning second place in the NL Central. Their pitching staff boasts a strong 3.80 team ERA, ranking eighth in the majors.

The Brewers, who topped the NL Central with a 97-65 record, have proven themselves on the road with a 45-36 record. Their pitchers have posted a collective 3.59 ERA—second-best in all of baseball.

This game marks the 16th meeting between the two teams this year. So far, the Brewers hold a slim edge in the season series, leading 8-7.

Top Performers

Nico Hoerner has been a key contributor for the Cubs, posting a .297 average with 29 doubles, four triples, seven home runs, and 61 RBI. Michael Busch enters Game 3 on a hot streak, going 13-for-33 with three doubles, a triple, and six home runs in his last 10 games.

On the Brewers' side, William Contreras leads with 28 doubles and 17 home runs, while Danny Jansen is 7-for-20 with three home runs over the last 10 games.

Recent Performance

In their last 10 games, the Cubs are 6-4 with a .248 batting average and a 3.27 ERA, outscoring opponents by 12 runs. The Brewers are 5-5 over the same stretch, with a .230 batting average, a 2.90 ERA, and have been outscored by two runs.

Injury Report

Cubs Injuries: Cade Horton (15-Day IL, ribs), Owen Caissie (7-Day IL, concussion), Ryan Brasier (15-Day IL, groin), Miguel Amaya (10-Day IL, ankle), Justin Steele (60-Day IL, elbow)

Brewers Injuries: Jackson Chourio (day-to-day, hamstring), Brandon Woodruff (15-Day IL, lat), Shelby Miller (60-Day IL, elbow), Logan Henderson (60-Day IL, elbow), Jordan Montgomery (60-Day IL, elbow), Garrett Mitchell (60-Day IL, oblique), Connor Thomas (60-Day IL, elbow)

In summary

The Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Cubs are set for a critical NLDS Game 3 showdown at Wrigley Field. The Brewers lead the series 2-0 and look to seal their ticket to the NLCS, while the Cubs fight to keep their season alive. With both teams showcasing elite pitchers and standout performers like Nico Hoerner and William Contreras, fans can expect a hard-fought contest. The game’s outcome may hinge on defensive adjustments in the brisk, breezy October weather and timely hitting from both lineups. For more coverage of the Milwaukee Brewers (97-65, NL Central champions) and Chicago Cubs (92-70, NL Central runners-up), follow the latest postseason updates and game recaps.

MLB Schedules

Today's MLB Games

There are no baseball games today.

Tomorrow's MLB Games

There are no baseball games tomorrow.

Yesterday's MLB Games

There were no baseball games yesterday.