Cubs Eye Redemption in NLDS Showdown Against Brewers
The Chicago Cubs find themselves in a crucial matchup on Monday as they seek to level their National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. With Game 2 looming, the Cubs are determined to avoid returning home trailing 2-0 in the best-of-five series.
A Chance for Reflection
Following a disheartening 9-3 loss in Game 1, the Cubs were granted a much-needed off day on Sunday. This time allowed the team to regroup, assess their performance, and strategize ahead of their pivotal clash. The bullpen, in particular, benefited from the breather after starter Matthew Boyd struggled, failing to escape the first inning, which put the team in an early hole.
Shota Imanaga Takes the Mound
Chicago’s hopes hinge on the performance of ace Shota Imanaga in Monday’s game. The left-hander will make his postseason start after a brief appearance in the NL Wild Card Series. Imanaga threw four innings against the Padres, finishing with a no-decision, having allowed two runs on three hits, including a home run.
During the regular season, Imanaga posted a record of 9-8 with a respectable 3.73 ERA across 25 starts. He struck out 117 batters while walking 26 over 144.2 innings, showcasing his ability to keep hitters at bay with a .218 batting average against him and a 0.99 WHIP. The Cubs will look for him to provide length and stability on the mound, especially after their bullpen was overworked in the previous game.
Facing the Brewers’ Ace
On the other side, the Brewers will counter with left-hander Aaron Ashby. Although Ashby is no stranger to postseason play, his experience is limited, having made four playoff appearances with a higher-than-average ERA of 9.00 in just four innings. Last season, he struggled in his lone postseason outing, failing to record an out while allowing three hits and two runs.
In contrast, Ashby had a strong regular season, finishing with a 5-2 record and a stellar 2.16 ERA over 43 games, predominantly out of the bullpen. He struck out 76 batters against 24 walks in 66.2 innings. While Ashby can provide some length to the Brewers’ pitching staff, expectations suggest he may be limited to around two innings of work.
Game Details
As the Cubs prepare for this critical showdown, fans can tune in to watch the action unfold:
Game Day: Monday, October 6
Game Time: 8:08 p.m. CT
Where: American Family Ballpark, Milwaukee
Watch: TBS/HBO Max
Listen: 670 The Score, WRTO 1200 (Cubs)
Series Recap
The Cubs enter Game 2 with a sense of urgency, needing to bounce back after their Game 1 defeat:
Game 1: Brewers 9, Cubs 3 (Brewers lead series 1-0)
Game 2: Cubs at Brewers, Monday at 8:08 p.m. CT
Game 3: Brewers at Cubs, Wednesday at 4:08 p.m. CT
Game 4: Brewers at Cubs, Thursday at 8:08 p.m. CT (if necessary)
Game 5: Cubs at Brewers, Saturday, October 11 at 3:38 p.m. CT (if necessary)
As both teams gear up for this critical matchup, the stakes are high, and every pitch will matter. The Cubs hope to find their rhythm and head back to Chicago with a split, while the Brewers look to solidify their lead in the series.
