The Chicago Cubs are set to face the Arizona Diamondbacks in a much-anticipated matchup at Wrigley Field on April 18, 2025, with a start time of 11:20 a.m. on Cox, Ch. 34. This game marks a critical juncture in the season for both teams as they look to solidify their standings in the National League.
On the mound for the Cubs is right-hander Colin Rea, who comes into this game with an impressive 1.00 ERA after four appearances, including a solid start against the Dodgers on April 13, where he allowed just one run over 3 ⅔ innings while striking out five. Rea's performance has been a pleasant surprise for the Cubs, especially considering that he is filling in for the injured Justin Steele, who is out for the season due to elbow surgery.
Facing him will be Corbin Burnes, the Diamondbacks' ace, who is looking to bounce back from a rocky start to the season. Burnes, with a 5.28 ERA, has struggled to find his form after three starts, including a no-decision in his last outing against the Brewers on April 12. Historically, Burnes has had a mixed record against the Cubs, holding a 2-5 record and a 3.36 ERA in 17 career appearances against them. His last start against the Cubs was on July 10, 2024, where he took the loss after allowing three earned runs over six innings.
As the Cubs lineup takes shape, manager David Ross has opted to start Carson Kelly behind the plate, who has been on fire with a .407 batting average and a 1.538 OPS, including four home runs this season. Kelly's offensive prowess has been a key asset for the Cubs, especially with Ketel Marte likely sidelined for the entire series due to a hamstring injury. Marte had been a thorn in the Cubs' side, hitting safely in all four games during their previous series.
The Cubs' lineup also features Ian Happ in left field, Kyle Tucker in right, and Seiya Suzuki as the designated hitter. Notably, rookie Vidal Brujan will make his first start of the season at third base, batting ninth. Brujan is stepping in for Matt Shaw, who was recently demoted, and the Cubs are hoping for a spark from the utility player.
On the other side, the Diamondbacks are coming off a sweep against the Marlins and have been performing well, boasting a 10-5 record since they last faced the Cubs. Arizona's offense has been particularly potent against right-handed pitching, leading the majors with a 138 wRC+. However, the absence of Marte is a significant blow, as he was instrumental in their previous matchup.
Corbin Carroll has emerged as a standout player for the Diamondbacks, playing at an MVP level and providing valuable support from the top of the order. The team will also rely on Pavin Smith, who has been contributing consistently. However, Eugenio Suárez has cooled off after a hot start that saw him earn NL Player of the Week honors.
As the teams prepare for this crucial game, both managers will be keenly aware of the importance of pitching matchups. The wind is blowing out to left-center at Wrigley Field, which could lead to a high-scoring affair if both pitchers struggle to find their rhythm.
This series is particularly significant as it marks the only time the Diamondbacks will face the Cubs this season unless they meet in the postseason. With the Cubs currently sitting at 12-9 and the Diamondbacks at 12-7, both teams are eager to gain momentum as they navigate through the early part of the season.
As the game unfolds, fans can expect an exciting showdown between two competitive teams. The Cubs will be looking to capitalize on home-field advantage, while the Diamondbacks aim to continue their strong play and overcome the absence of key players.
With the stakes high and both teams eager to prove themselves, this matchup promises to deliver plenty of drama and excitement. Tune in at 11:20 a.m. CT to catch all the action live on Marquee Sports Network and MLB Network.
