Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ominous stat hanging over the Cubs heading into their elimination game?
Since the Wild Card round expanded to a best-of-three format in 2022, 15 of the 16 Game 1 winners have advanced to the Division Series. The Cubs lost Game 1 to the Padres 8-0, putting them on the wrong side of that trend.
How did Michael King dominate the Cubs in Game 1?
Michael King threw seven shutout innings, allowing only a single to Nico Hoerner in the seventh along with three walks, while striking out eight batters. The Cubs' offense was completely neutralized throughout the game.
Why is the Cubs' bullpen situation so dire heading into Games 2 and 3?
Because the Padres blew out the Cubs in Game 1, San Diego's top relievers — including Mason Miller, Adrian Morejon, Jason Adam, Bradgley Rodriguez, and David Morgan — are all fully rested. Meanwhile, if the Cubs use their best arms in Game 2, they'll be short-handed for a potential Game 3.
What is the pitching matchup for Game 2 of the Cubs vs. Padres Wild Card Series?
Game 2 features Kevin Gausman for the Cubs against Nick Pivetta for the Padres. Gausman is dealing with discomfort in his left shoulder and may only be able to pitch around four innings.
How did Nick Pivetta perform against the Cubs in the 2025 Wild Card Series?
Pivetta struck out nine batters in five innings against the Cubs in Game 1 of the 2025 Wild Card Series at Wrigley Field, but he took the loss after surrendering two solo home runs to Seiya Suzuki and Carson Kelly in a 3-1 Cubs win.
Aldo Soto
With a journalism degree from Eastern Illinois University and a decade of Cubs reporting, my work has appeared on 670 The Score, ESPN 1000, and the Pinwheels and Ivy Podcast. I cover Cubs news and analysis for Sports Mockery, including roster moves, game breakdowns, and prospect development.
View All Posts