Introduction to the NLDS Game 5
The Chicago Cubs are looking to keep their season going after digging themselves out of a ditch this week to push the NL Division Series to a decisive Game 5. Saturday’s winner-take-all matchup, set to unfold in Milwaukee, comes after the Cubs shut down the Milwaukee Brewers for a 6-0 victory in Chicago on Thursday night.
Cubs’ Recent Performance
The Cubs are riding high after pulling themselves out of a pit this week. They were on the brink of elimination after dropping the first two games in Milwaukee. But a 4-3 victory on Wednesday energized them enough to claim another victory in Game 4. The winner of Saturday’s game, which marks the 18th meeting between the two teams this season, will advance to the National League Championship Series (NLCS), where they will face the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Team Statistics
Currently, Milwaukee has a 97-65 record overall and a 52-29 record in home games, while Chicago is 92-70 overall and 42-39 on the road. The Brewers are 76-24 in games when they record eight or more hits, while the Cubs have hit 223 total home runs to rank third in the NL.
Game 5 Details
Thursday’s game is slated to begin at 7:08 p.m. CDT.
Starting Pitchers
Drew Pomeranz will take the ball for the Cubs in Game 5. The southpaw appeared in 57 games for the Cubs in 2025, making four starts and finishing with a 2-2 record as a starter. He finished the regular season with a 2.17 ERA and 57 strikeouts. Meanwhile, right-hander Trevor Megill will start for Milwaukee. A relief pitcher, Megill pitched 47 innings in 2025 and appeared in 50 games, accumulating a 2.49 ERA and 60 strikeouts.
Starting Lineups
Here’s the Cubs starting lineup:
- Michael Busch (L) 1B
- Nico Hoerner (R) 2B
- Kyle Tucker (L) DH
- Seiya Suzuki (R) RF
- Ian Happ (S) LF
- Carson Kelly (R) C
- Pete Crow-Armstrong (L) CF
- Dansby Swanson (R) SS
- Matt Shaw (R) 3B
The Brewers will counter with the following lineup. - Jackson Chourio (R) LF
- Brice Turang (L) 2B
- William Contreras (R) C
- Christian Yelich (L) DH
- Andrew Vaughn (R) 1B
- Sal Frelick (L) RF
- Caleb Durbin (R) 3B
- Blake Perkins (S) CF
- Joey Ortiz (R) SS
Fan Excitement
Ahead of game 4 on Thursday, excitement was building in Wrigleyville as fans flocked to the Northside for the big game. Even some who don’t usually take part in the camaraderie had to gear up for a big win. “You have to participate in the excitement when they win,” Cathy Lancaster, who owns Lily Pad Mahjong Parlor in Wrigleyville, said.
Conclusion
The Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers are set to face off in Game 5 of the NLDS, with the winner advancing to the NLCS. The Cubs are looking to continue their momentum after winning Games 3 and 4, while the Brewers are seeking to bounce back from their recent losses. With the starting lineups and pitchers announced, fans are eagerly anticipating the decisive game.
FAQs
Q: What time does Game 5 of the NLDS start?
A: Game 5 is slated to begin at 7:08 p.m. CDT.
Q: Who are the starting pitchers for Game 5?
A: Drew Pomeranz will start for the Cubs, while Trevor Megill will start for the Brewers.
Q: What are the overall records of the Cubs and Brewers?
A: The Cubs have a 92-70 overall record, while the Brewers have a 97-65 overall record.
Q: How many home runs have the Cubs hit this season?
A: The Cubs have hit 223 total home runs, ranking third in the NL.
