New York Mets vs. Chicago Cubs: Game Preview, Pitching Matchup & Key Players – September 25, 2025

Thursday, September 25th, 2025

New York Mets vs. Chicago Cubs Game Preview: September 25, 2025

The New York Mets (81-77, second in the NL East) travel to Chicago to face the Chicago Cubs (89-69, second in the NL Central) at Wrigley Field on Thursday, with first pitch scheduled for 6:40 PM CT. The series is currently tied at one game each, setting the stage for a crucial matchup as both teams continue their push in the standings.

Pitching Matchup

The Mets will send Nolan McLean (4-1, 1.27 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 46 strikeouts) to the mound. He has been exceptional in limited action this season, posting an elite ERA and WHIP while displaying strong command.

The Cubs counter with left-hander Shota Imanaga (9-7, 3.37 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, 114 strikeouts), who has anchored the rotation with solid outings and impressive control throughout the year.

Series & Team Performance

This game marks the sixth meeting between the Mets and Cubs this season, with New York holding a narrow 3-2 lead in the season series. Both teams have matched up well, making this contest pivotal for their playoff aspirations.

Chicago comes in with a strong 89-69 record and boasts a home mark of 47-30. The Cubs feature the seventh-best slugging percentage in Major League Baseball at .426, fueled by power throughout the lineup.

The Mets, meanwhile, are 81-77 overall but have struggled on the road with a 32-45 record. Their .327 team on-base percentage ranks sixth in the majors, providing them with plenty of scoring opportunities.

Weather

Today's weather at Wrigley Field is expected to be mild and partly cloudy, with temperatures around 70°F. There is a low chance of precipitation, making rain delays unlikely, and winds are light from the southwest at 8 mph—favorable for hitters aiming for the outfield. Overall, it's ideal baseball weather for players and fans alike.

Top Performers

For the Cubs, Michael Busch stands out with 31 home runs and a .499 slugging percentage. Rookie Matt Shaw has contributed recently, tallying two home runs and three RBI over the last 10 games.

The Mets have been powered by Juan Soto, who has compiled 43 home runs, 124 walks, 105 RBI and a .267 batting average. Pete Alonso is also surging, with 14 hits, four homers, and nine RBI in his last 39 at-bats.

Recent Team Stats

Chicago Cubs (Last 10 Games):

Record: 5-5 | Batting Avg: .258 | ERA: 3.03 | Run Differential: +9

New York Mets (Last 10 Games):

Record: 5-5 | Batting Avg: .260 | ERA: 3.82 | Run Differential: +7

Injury Report

Chicago Cubs

Cade Horton (day-to-day, back), Owen Caissie (7-Day IL, concussion), Kyle Tucker (10-Day IL, calf), Ryan Brasier (15-Day IL, groin), Miguel Amaya (10-Day IL, ankle), Justin Steele (60-Day IL, elbow)

New York Mets

Reed Garrett (15-Day IL, elbow), Frankie Montas (60-Day IL, elbow), Jesse Winker (60-Day IL, back), Max Kranick (60-Day IL, elbow), Dedniel Nunez (60-Day IL, elbow), Tylor Megill (60-Day IL, elbow), Griffin Canning (60-Day IL, achilles), Danny Young (60-Day IL, elbow), A.J. Minter (60-Day IL, lat), Nick Madrigal (60-Day IL, shoulder), Drew Smith (60-Day IL, elbow), Christian Scott (60-Day IL, elbow)

In Summary

The New York Mets and the Chicago Cubs face off in a pivotal late-season matchup at Wrigley Field with both teams aiming to solidify their playoff positions. With the series tied and a favorable weather forecast, fans can expect a competitive contest led by top-tier starters Nolan McLean and Shota Imanaga. Key players like Juan Soto and Michael Busch look to make an impact, while both teams hope to overcome injury challenges. This showdown between two second-place National League squads could have major playoff implications as the season nears its end.

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