The Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres are set to collide in Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series today, October 2, with everything on the line after a split in the first two games. The Cubs grabbed a 3-1 victory in the opener on Tuesday, leaning on solid pitching and timely hits, but the Padres fired back Wednesday with a 3-0 shutout, showcasing their potent lineup once more. Now, back at Wrigley Field under the afternoon sun—a tradition that still feels right for this old ballpark—the winner advances to face the Brewers, while the loser packs it in for the winter.
Craig Counsell, the Cubs' manager navigating his second year in Chicago, has emphasized staying aggressive, especially with Dansby Swanson anchoring shortstop and providing that steady leadership in the infield. Swanson's glove work and bat have been crucial, though the Cubs' offense sputtered in Game 2, managing just four hits against San Diego's staff. On the Padres' side, their stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. continue to loom large, forcing Chicago to tighten up defensively if they want to extend their first postseason run since 2020.
Game time is 2:08 p.m. ET, a slot that suits the East Coast crowd but might drag a bit for West Coast fans. Indeed, broadcast details are straightforward: ESPN carries the national feed, while local viewers in Chicago can tune into ABC7 for the call. Streaming options abound through the ESPN app or MLB.tv for those cutting the cord. However, with playoff blackouts in play, it's worth double-checking your setup beforehand. Moreover, weather at Wrigley looks cooperative—mid-60s and partly cloudy—though a brisk wind could factor into those fly balls.
The series has been tight, exposing both teams' strengths and flaws under pressure. The Cubs' bullpen, taxed early, now relies on key arms to hold leads, while San Diego's rotation depth gives them an edge if starters deliver. Still, in a one-game elimination, anything can shift quickly.
What this decisive matchup reveals about the Cubs' rebuild under Counsell remains to be seen, prompting questions on their long-term grit.