Cubs eliminate Padres and advance to the NLCS against Brewers

CHICAGO – The Chicago Cubs wrote a new chapter in their October history by defeating the San Diego Padres 3-1 in the decisive Game 3 of the National League Wild Card Series, thus qualifying for the Divisional Series against the Milwaukee Brewers.

You may be interested:Tigers defeat Guardians and advance to the American League Divisional Series

The protagonist was the young Pete Crow-Armstrong, who backed up with his glove and bat in a life-or-death duel. The center fielder made a sliding catch that lifted the fans at Wrigley Field and, later, hit a key single that led the Chicagoans to victory. From the mound, Jameson Taillon stepped up with a solid performance, while the defense covered every detail to secure the Cubs’ first postseason series win since 2017. The celebration was even more special as it took place at home, something that hadn’t happened since the National League pennant won in 2016.

THE CUBS ARE ADVANCING! pic.twitter.com/7Squnkf7FY

— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) October 3, 2025

With the triumph, the Cubs will now face the Brewers, champions of the National League Central and holders of a direct pass to the NLDS. Despite the short distance —about 90 miles between Wrigley Field and American Family Field—, this will be the first time both teams clash in a playoff series, igniting a divisional rivalry that now goes up a level in October.