In a nail-biting conclusion to the NL Wild Card Series, the Chicago Cubs defeated the San Diego Padres 3-1 in Game 3 at Wrigley Field, advancing to the Division Series while abruptly halting San Diego's playoff run. The Cubs' defense shone brightly, with standout plays that kept the Padres' potent lineup in check throughout the afternoon affair. Indeed, Chicago's back-to-back homers from earlier games lingered in the air, but it was their glove work in the decisive matchup that truly sealed the deal.
Xander Bogaerts, the Padres' seasoned shortstop, found himself at the center of controversy yet again. A questionable umpire call on a close play at first base in the eighth inning drew sharp criticism from the San Diego dugout, potentially costing them a crucial rally. Bogaerts, batting .278 this season with solid defensive metrics, slumped visibly after the decision, his frustration evident as the inning fizzled out. Moreover, his overall series performance— just 2-for-10—highlighted the inconsistencies that plagued the team under pressure.
Fernando Tatis Jr., the electric outfielder whose highlights have defined recent Padres campaigns, faced unfortunate timing in this series. Dealing with a nagging hamstring tweak from late September, Tatis went 0-for-11 across the three games, his power silenced at the worst possible moment. Despite flashing his trademark speed on a stolen base attempt in Game 2, the 26-year-old couldn't ignite the offense, leaving fans to wonder if full health might have altered the outcome. His season stats—35 homers and 98 RBIs—now feel like a bittersweet footnote.
Yu Darvish took the mound for San Diego in the opener, delivering a quality start with six innings of two-run ball, striking out seven Cubs but ultimately undermined by defensive miscues. The veteran right-hander's 3.45 ERA this year spoke to his reliability, yet the bullpen faltered behind him. As for Jake Arrieta, the former Cubs ace and 2016 World Series hero, he watched from afar, offering post-game commentary on Chicago's resilient spirit via social media— a nod to his own glory days.
Padres manager Bob Melvin, in his third year at the helm, faced tough questions after the elimination. His decision to pull Darvish early drew mixed reviews, and with the core intact, whispers of offseason adjustments already swirl. However, Melvin praised his club's fight, noting the grueling three-game set at Wrigley exposed vulnerabilities in day games. The loss stings, but it also underscores the fine margins of October baseball.
What lies ahead for the Cubs in the NLDS, and can the Padres rebound stronger next spring?