Image Source: Yahoo Sports
Cubs fans have another major storyline to follow at Wrigley Field as the Chicago Cubs prepare to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in a highly anticipated matchup. The Dodgers will send newly acquired ace Tarik Skubal to the mound for his first start in Los Angeles uniform, while Chicago looks to build on a convincing victory in Monday’s series opener.
The Cubs defeated the Dodgers 10-5 in the opening game of the three-game series, handing Los Angeles its fourth consecutive loss. The result gave Chicago an early advantage and added to the pressure surrounding a Dodgers club that has recently seen its National League West lead shrink to nine games over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Cubs Prepare for a Blockbuster Skubal Debut
Tuesday’s contest carries plenty of attention because Skubal is expected to make an immediate impact for Los Angeles. The left-hander was acquired from the Detroit Tigers in a blockbuster trade shortly before the deadline, with the Dodgers sending outfield prospect Zyhir Hope and pitching prospects River Ryan and Brady Smith to Detroit.
Skubal arrives in Los Angeles with an impressive résumé. The two-time American League Cy Young Award winner has posted a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts across 96.2 innings this season. Since returning from elbow surgery to remove loose bodies, he has made nine starts, recording a 2.87 ERA and 71 strikeouts over 53.1 innings.
That production makes Skubal one of the most dangerous additions made by any contender this season. The Dodgers hope he can stabilize a rotation that has dealt with injuries and inconsistency, while also giving the team a dependable option for the postseason.
Chicago Cubs Look to Keep Dodgers Reeling
The Cubs will counter with right-hander Javier Assad. Assad is 6-1 with a 3.75 ERA in 69.2 innings this season. He has appeared in 18 games, making nine starts and nine relief appearances.
As a starter, Assad has a 3.50 ERA with 32 strikeouts in 46.1 innings. His ability to work in multiple roles has been valuable for Chicago, particularly against a Dodgers lineup filled with high-profile hitters.
Chicago’s offense already showed its potential in the series opener. The Cubs scored 10 runs and quickly turned the game into a comfortable lead, putting pressure on Los Angeles from the beginning. Another strong performance could give the Cubs a series victory and provide a significant boost during the late-season playoff push.
Powerful Dodgers Lineup Faces a Critical Test
Despite their recent skid, the Dodgers will bring an intimidating lineup to the plate. Shohei Ohtani is scheduled to start as the designated hitter, followed by Andy Pages in center field and Freddie Freeman at first base. Max Muncy, Mookie Betts and Kyle Tucker are also included in the starting order.
The Dodgers lineup is expected to be:
- Shohei Ohtani, designated hitter
- Andy Pages, center field
- Freddie Freeman, first base
- Max Muncy, third base
- Mookie Betts, shortstop
- Kyle Tucker, right field
- Teoscar Hernández, left field
- Tommy Edman, second base
- Ben Rortvedt, catcher
Rortvedt is set to make his first start for the Dodgers after the team selected his contract. Los Angeles also added Hunter Feduccia to the active roster. Catcher Chuckie Robinson was designated for assignment, while Eliezer Alfonzo Jr. was optioned.
How to Watch the Cubs vs. Dodgers
The Cubs and Dodgers are scheduled to meet Tuesday night at Wrigley Field. First pitch is set for 5:05 p.m. Pacific time and 8:05 p.m. Eastern time.
The game will be available on SportsNet LA, TBS and the MLB app. Fans can also listen on AM570 in English or KTNQ 1020 AM in Spanish.
For Chicago, the goal is straightforward: protect home-field advantage and create another difficult night for a Dodgers team searching for answers. For Los Angeles, Skubal’s debut offers a chance to stop the losing streak and restore confidence after two disappointing series.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Cubs playing the Dodgers?
The Cubs are scheduled to face the Dodgers Tuesday night at Wrigley Field in the second game of their three-game series.
Who is starting for the Dodgers?
Tarik Skubal is scheduled to make his first start for Los Angeles after joining the Dodgers from the Detroit Tigers.
Who is pitching for Chicago?
Javier Assad is expected to start for the Cubs. He has a 6-1 record and a 3.75 ERA this season.
What time does the game begin?
First pitch is scheduled for 5:05 p.m. Pacific time, or 8:05 p.m. Eastern time.
Why is this matchup important?
The Cubs can strengthen their position with another win, while the Dodgers are trying to avoid a season-worst five-game losing streak and regain momentum in the National League West.
