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The excitement is palpable as the Brewers vs Cubs rivalry takes center stage in an unforgettable NLDS Game 3 at Wrigley Field. The Milwaukee Brewers, having executed a masterful home strategy, come into Wednesday’s matchup with an opportunity to complete a sweep over their Central Division rivals, the Chicago Cubs. This game represents one of the most critical moments in the storied history of their rivalry.
Game Time and Broadcast Information
Scheduled for 4:08 p.m. CT, today’s showdown can be viewed on TBS, truTV, and HBO Max. Fans looking for an adrenaline-packed atmosphere can expect a packed Wrigley Field, as both teams aim to settle their postseason score.
Brewers Aim for a Historic Sweep
The Brewers find themselves on the verge of clinching their first postseason series victory since 2018. With a current 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series, history suggests they have a high chance of advancing — teams with this advantage in postseason series have won 88.9% of the time. Brewers manager Pat Murphy emphasized the team’s resilience amid various challenges: “It’s the group of people in the room that know how to bounce back…That relentless kind of behavior is a separator,” he remarked.
Through two postseason games, the Brewers’ success is largely due to their robust pitching staff and some clutch performances at the plate. Quinn Priester, who is set to start Game 3, is significant for the team’s momentum, especially after being a key player during the regular season.
Cubs Look to Reverse Their Fortune
On the contrary, the Chicago Cubs are grappling with their performance, seeking answers to rebound from their two-game slump. Cubs manager Craig Counsell highlighted the importance of winning individual pitches, stating, “It’s going to be a fun environment, and we’re looking forward to Wednesday.” The Cubs need to find their rhythm if they hope to stave off elimination.
Projected Starting Pitchers and Lineups
The matchup on the mound sees the Brewers putting their trust in Quinn Priester, who has maintained excellent form throughout the season with a 3.32 ERA and a strong finish, winning 19 consecutive games in which he pitched. Meanwhile, the Cubs will start veteran Jameson Taillon, who proved his mettle in their Wild Card Series, boasting a stellar 1.67 ERA in his last eight appearances.
Here’s a look at the anticipated starting lineups for both teams:
- Brewers:
- Christian Yelich (DH)
- Jackson Chourio (LF)
- Brice Turang (2B)
- William Contreras (C)
- Sal Frelick (RF)
- Caleb Durbin (3B)
- Jake Bauers (1B)
- Brandon Lockridge (CF)
- Joey Ortiz (SS)
- Cubs:
- Michael Busch (1B)
- Nico Hoerner (2B)
- Kyle Tucker (DH)
- Seiya Suzuki (RF)
- Ian Happ (LF)
- Carson Kelly (C)
- Pete Crow-Armstrong (CF)
- Dansby Swanson (SS)
- Matt Shaw (3B)
Injuries and Game Impact
One key player to watch for the Brewers is Jackson Chourio. Despite experiencing hamstring tightness, he is back in the lineup but is still a game-time decision. The Cubs will have Kyle Tucker primarily as a designated hitter, easing concerns over his recent return from injury.
Key Players to Watch
For the Brewers, Chourio has emerged as a standout, leading the team with a remarkable .556 batting average in his limited postseason appearances. Contreras has also been instrumental, hitting .321 against the Cubs this season. On the Cubs’ side, Suzuki’s recent form, with seven home runs in his last nine games, is a beacon of hope for a struggling lineup.
Conclusion
As the Brewers and Cubs gear up for a thrilling matchup in Game 3, fans can expect a hostile environment at Wrigley Field with everything on the line. Will the Brewers finalize their sweep, or can the Cubs conjure a comeback? One thing is certain: this rivalry is far from over, and the intensity of playoff baseball guarantees a riveting contest.
FAQ
What time is the Brewers vs Cubs Game 3?
The game is scheduled to start at 4:08 p.m. CT.
How can fans watch the game?
Fans can watch the game on TBS, truTV, and HBO Max.
Who are the starting pitchers for Game 3?
Quinn Priester will start for the Brewers, while the Cubs will go with Jameson Taillon.
What is the significance of this game?
This game represents a potential series sweep for the Brewers, as they currently lead the NLDS 2-0.
Are there any injury concerns for either team?
Jackson Chourio has a hamstring issue but is expected to play. Kyle Tucker is primarily serving as a DH for the Cubs as he returns from injury.
