Cubs Fall to Brewers in Game 5 of 2025 NL Division Series
When Chicago Cubs stepped onto Wrigley Field for Game 5 of the National League Division Series, the stakes couldn't have been higher. The series, a best‑of‑five matchup that began on October 1, 2025, pitted the Cubs against the Milwaukee Brewers in a battle that ultimately decided who would advance to the National League Championship Series.
Historical Context: A Rivalry Revived
Both clubs entered the postseason with momentum. The Cubs finished the regular season at a solid 92‑70, earning a wild‑card berth after rattling off a three‑game win over the San Diego Padres. Meanwhile, the Brewers rode a 95‑67 campaign to claim the NL Central crown. The last time the two met in a postseason series was back in 2008, when Chicago edged Milwaukee in a dramatic five‑game showdown.
Series Recap: Ups and Downs
Game 1 in Milwaukee saw the Brewers rattling off a 5‑2 win behind a three‑run ninth inning. Chicago rallied in Game 2, thanks to a clutch two‑run double by Ian Happ, tying the series 1‑1. The Brewers reclaimed the edge in Game 3 at Wrigley Field, a 6‑3 affair highlighted by a solo home run from William Contreras.
Game 4 turned into a nail‑biter. The Cubs forced extra innings with a go‑ahead solo shot by Matt Chapman, but Milwaukee's bullpen held strong, delivering a 4‑2 victory that set up a decisive Game 5.
Game 5: The Final Blow
Played on October 4, 2025, at Milwaukee County Stadium, the fifth game was a showcase of power hitting and pitching depth. The Brewers opened the scoring in the first inning with a leadoff single by Colin Moran that eventually turned into a run.
Chicago answered in the third, loading the bases and bringing home two runs on a sacrifice fly by Kris Bryant. However, the Brewers unleashed a back‑to‑back rally in the sixth, highlighted by a three‑run homer from Luis Urías. The final score—9‑3 Brewers—sealed the series and sent Milwaukee to the NLCS.
“We fought hard, but the Brewers executed when it mattered most,” said David Ross, the Cubs' manager, after the loss.
“Our bullpen kept the pressure on, and the offense just kept ticking,” noted Craig Counsell, the Brewers' skipper, in the post‑game interview.
Reactions from Fans and Media
Fans in Chicago took to social media with a mix of disappointment and optimism. A trending hashtag, #CubsFuture, reflected belief that the young core—particularly Zach Davies on the mound—could return stronger next year. Local NBC Chicago analyst Mike Tagliabue opined, “The talent is there; it’s the consistency that’s missing.”
Looking Ahead: 2026 Season Preview
The Cubs' next chapter begins on March 26, 2026, when they host the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field for Opening Day. The upcoming season promises a revamped roster, featuring a free‑agent signing of shortstop J.T. Realmuto and a rumored trade for a left‑handed reliever.
The Division Series loss also reignited discussions about the Cubs' payroll flexibility and the potential for a mid‑season trade deadline push. According to Baseball America, the Cubs rank third in the league for Wins Above Replacement (WAR) among their starting rotation, suggesting they have a solid foundation to build upon.
Key Facts
- Series: Cubs vs Brewers Division Series
- Game 5 Date: October 4, 2025
- Final Score: Brewers 9, Cubs 3
- Cubs Regular‑Season Record: 92‑70
- Opening Day 2026: March 26 vs Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Game 5 played in Milwaukee instead of Chicago?
The NL Division Series follows a 2‑2‑1 format. Since the Brewers held home‑field advantage as the higher‑seeded team, Games 1, 2 and the decisive Game 5 were scheduled at Milwaukee County Stadium.
What were the pivotal moments that swung the series to Milwaukee?
Key turning points included the Brewers' three‑run sixth‑inning rally in Game 5 and the Cubs' missed opportunities with runners in scoring position in Games 2 and 4. Pitching depth from Milwaukee's bullpen also shut down Chicago's late‑inning comebacks.
How will the Cubs address their postseason shortcomings?
General Manager Jed Hoyer has hinted at bolstering the bullpen and adding a power bat in the upcoming free‑agency market. The organization also plans to give more plate appearances to emerging talent like Mickey Moniak.
When does the Cubs' 2026 schedule officially start?
Opening Day is set for March 26, 2026, when Chicago hosts the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field. The full 162‑game schedule will be released by MLB on December 1, 2025.
Which players stood out for the Cubs during the series?
Outfielder Ian Happ posted a .333 batting average with two RBIs, while starter Zach Davies logged 12 strikeouts over 7⅔ innings across the series.
Johnathan Woodard
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