The Chicago Cubs are riding high after a dominant performance against the Dodgers earlier this week, currently sitting at 16-10 and leading the NL Central. With a recent record of 7-3 over their last ten games, they were poised to make a statement against the struggling Philadelphia Phillies on Friday, April 25, 2025. However, fans hoping for an exciting afternoon of baseball at Wrigley Field are left waiting due to a rain delay. The tarp is currently on the field as the teams await clearer skies.
As of 3:18 PM CST, officials indicated that they might attempt to start the game at 3:30 PM CST, although weather conditions in the area appear less than promising. A significant storm front is moving through, causing uncertainty about whether the game can be played today. "For those of you at Wrigley wanting to watch the game, we suggest getting comfortable somewhere that is dry and safe," the Cubs' official account advised. Despite the weather, there remains hope that the game could still be played, thanks to its early scheduling.
On the mound for the Cubs is Colin Rea, who was set to face off against Taijuan Walker of the Phillies. This matchup is particularly intriguing as both teams are looking to establish momentum early in the season. The Cubs have been impressive at home, boasting an 8-5 record, and lead MLB with a .346 team on-base percentage. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, which manager Craig Counsell attributes to the high level of execution from the lineup.
One standout player for the Cubs this season has been Pete Crow-Armstrong, who has emerged as a key contributor. Crow-Armstrong ranks third in the majors with a 1.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), trailing only Kyle Tucker, who has a WAR of 1.6. According to OptaStats, he is the first player in major league history to achieve five home runs, ten stolen bases, and fifteen extra-base hits before the end of April. Crow-Armstrong, who has expressed a desire to lead off in the lineup, is currently batting in a position that allows him to maximize his impact, with Counsell noting, "I think our lineup is executing at a really high level right now."
Despite his success, Crow-Armstrong remains humble and focused on the team. He has developed a rapport with fans, reminiscent of the connection former Cubs star Sammy Sosa had with the crowd during his tenure. Crow-Armstrong recalled a conversation with Sosa during Cubs Convention week, where Sosa praised his swing and the confidence he brings to the game. "Sammy was super complimentary and it was really cool hearing that he paid a lot of attention to the current happenings of the Cubs," Crow-Armstrong said.
As the game remains delayed, the Cubs are also dealing with injury updates. Javier Assad has been shut down at Triple-A Iowa due to a Grade 2 left oblique strain, which complicates the Cubs' pitching depth following the season-ending injury to Justin Steele. "You’re always looking for (starters)," Counsell remarked, emphasizing the need to adapt in light of the injuries. The Cubs may need to explore additional options in their rotation as they navigate this challenging stretch.
Closer Ryan Pressly was also scheduled to throw before the game, but his availability remains uncertain after having his right knee drained earlier in the week. Counsell downplayed the severity of Pressly's situation, stating, "It’s been kind of an annoyance for a little while here and just got to the point that he doesn’t want to have to deal with it." With Pressly's experience, the team is hopeful he can return to form quickly.
The matchup against the Phillies marks the first meeting of the season between these two teams, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the proceedings. The Phillies, who currently hold a 13-12 record and are 4-8 on the road, are looking to turn their season around against a Cubs team that seems to be finding its rhythm. Both teams feature strong lineups, with the Phillies boasting a .340 team on-base percentage, ranking third in the majors.
As fans wait for the rain delay to lift, the excitement surrounding this game remains palpable. With both teams eager to assert themselves, the stage is set for an electrifying contest once the weather permits. The Cubs' lineup features Ian Happ, Kyle Tucker, Seiya Suzuki, Michael Busch, Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Carson Kelly, and Jon Berti, all ready to take the field as soon as conditions allow.
In the meantime, the Cubs will continue to monitor the weather closely, hoping for a break in the rain that will allow them to play. The energy at Wrigley Field is undeniable, and fans are eager to see if the Cubs can extend their winning ways against a determined Phillies squad. With the promise of a thrilling matchup and the potential for standout performances from players like Crow-Armstrong, baseball fans are in for a treat whenever the action resumes.
