Chicago Cubs-San Diego Padres Set To Face Off In 2025 MLB Playoffs

The big question now is: who gets home-field advantage? Let’s be real, playing at Wrigley Field in October is a whole different animal. The Cubs are currently holding the edge heading into the final weekend of the season, but in baseball, you never say never. A 2.5-game lead feels comfortable, but comfort is for the offseason.

This isn’t the first time these two teams have danced in October. Their only other postseason meeting was the epic 1984 NLCS, a series that still gives older Cubs fans nightmares. The Padres, down 2-0, stormed back to win in a dramatic Game 5. It was a series that had it all: Steve Garvey’s walk-off homer in Game 4, a stunning comeback, and a whole lot of heartbreak for Chicago. Are we in for another classic? My gut says yes.

How Did the Teams Match Up This Season?

If you are looking for clues from their regular-season games, good luck. They split their six games right down the middle, with each team protecting their home turf. It’s a coin flip, a 50-50 shot, a… well, you get the picture. It is anyone’s game.

San Diego is lining up its rotation, with Manager Mike Shildt pretty much confirming Nick Pivetta for Game 1. That leaves a scramble for the other spots. Meanwhile, the Cubs are keeping their cards close to the chest, but you can bet they’re strategizing how to handle San Diego’s lineup.

The winner of this series gets a ticket to face the Milwaukee Brewers, who are looking like the team to beat in the NL. But first, we get to watch the Cubs and Padres battle it out in what promises to be a nail-biter of a series. Grab your popcorn and settle in. This is what October is all about.