Image Source: Bleed Cubbie Blue
Cardinals vs Cubs action returns to Wrigley Field on Friday, August 14, with the National League Central rivals meeting for their final scheduled series of the 2026 regular season. The Cubs enter the weekend in strong form, while the Cardinals are trying to build momentum in a competitive Wild Card race.
The season series is tied at five wins apiece after Chicago struggled against St. Louis during the first two meetings. The Cubs changed the story last month, winning three of four games at Busch Stadium. Now, the division rivals will settle the regular-season rivalry on Chicago’s North Side, barring an unlikely postseason rematch.
Cardinals vs Cubs Rivalry Reaches a Critical Finale
The stakes are especially high for St. Louis. The Cardinals recently took two of three games from the Philadelphia Phillies, creating a renewed sense of optimism around the club. However, a difficult weekend in Chicago could seriously damage their pursuit of the third National League Wild Card position.
Chicago has separated itself from St. Louis over the past month. After the teams met in early July, the Cubs were 50-40 and the Cardinals were 47-40. Since then, Chicago has gone 21-11, compared with a 14-20 mark for St. Louis. That stretch transformed a 1.5-game advantage into a nine-game lead.
The long-running rivalry also carries historical weight. The Cubs and Cardinals have played 2,536 games, the second-most matchups in Chicago history behind the Pittsburgh Pirates. Chicago has recorded 1,286 victories over St. Louis, also its second-highest total against any opponent.
Powerful Pitching Matchups to Watch
Friday’s opener could set the tone for the entire weekend. Clay Holmes is scheduled to start for Chicago against Matthew Liberatore of St. Louis. Holmes has struggled in his first start with the Cubs, posting a 9.00 ERA, but his overall 2026 numbers are much stronger. Across 10 starts, he owns a 4-5 record, a 2.86 ERA and a 3.48 FIP.
Liberatore represents a major concern for the Cardinals. He is 5-9 with a 5.15 ERA, a 1.522 WHIP and a 4.70 FIP. According to the Cardinals’ coverage from Viva el Birdos, control problems have made him an inconsistent presence. His scheduled start makes Friday an important opportunity for Chicago.
- Friday: Clay Holmes vs. Matthew Liberatore, 1:20 p.m. CT
- Saturday: Matthew Boyd vs. Michael McGreevy, 1:20 p.m. CT
- Sunday: Shōta Imanaga vs. Hunter Dobbins, 2:15 p.m. CT
Saturday gives the Cubs another promising matchup with Matthew Boyd on the mound. Boyd is 8-1 with a 3.50 ERA, while St. Louis counters with Michael McGreevy, who has a 4-9 record and a 3.64 ERA. Sunday’s finale features Shōta Imanaga against Hunter Dobbins in a matchup between left-handed and right-handed starters.
Cardinals’ Offense Shows Signs of Life
Although the Cardinals have been inconsistent, several hitters are trending upward. Alec Burleson has returned to his Silver Slugger-level form and has driven in runs at an impressive rate during the past week. Jordan Walker also recently hit his first home run since the All-Star break and continues to make hard contact.
Ivan Herrera has become one of St. Louis’ hottest offensive players. His defensive work behind the plate remains a serious weakness, but his bat has been extremely valuable in the designated hitter role. Meanwhile, newcomer Everson Pereira has made an immediate impact after being claimed from the Chicago White Sox.
Pereira delivered a spectacular defensive play in center field against Philadelphia, crashing into the wall at full speed to prevent a scoring opportunity. He later added a solo home run to secure the victory. JJ Wetherholt, however, is still trying to escape a slump after his average dropped into the .240s.
The Cardinals’ bullpen has also shown improvement. Riley O’Brien has regained his control and has converted his recent save opportunities effectively. Caleb Ferguson, acquired at the trade deadline, has been less reliable and could be off the roster by the time the series begins.
How to Watch the Cubs and Cardinals
Friday’s game will stream exclusively on Apple TV at 1:20 p.m. Central Time. Saturday’s matchup will air on Marquee Sports Network at the same time. Sunday’s finale starts at 2:15 p.m. CT and will receive a full national broadcast on ABC, with streaming available through the ESPN App for subscribers.
The forecast from Bleed Cubbie Blue calls for the Cubs to win two of three games. Chicago’s recent form, home-field advantage and stronger overall pitching outlook make that prediction understandable. A series victory would further widen the gap and put additional pressure on St. Louis during the final weeks of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Cardinals vs Cubs series?
The three-game series begins Friday, August 14, 2026, at Wrigley Field in Chicago.
Who starts Friday’s Cardinals vs Cubs game?
Clay Holmes is scheduled to start for the Cubs against Cardinals left-hander Matthew Liberatore.
Where can fans watch the series?
Friday’s game is on Apple TV, Saturday’s game is on Marquee Sports Network, and Sunday’s game is nationally televised on ABC.
What is the season series record?
The Cubs and Cardinals are tied at five wins apiece entering the final scheduled series of the regular season.
Why is this series important?
St. Louis is chasing a Wild Card berth, while Chicago can strengthen its position and potentially hurt the Cardinals’ September playoff push.
