The Chicago Cubs (17-10) are set to host the Philadelphia Phillies (13-13) in an exciting matchup at Wrigley Field on Saturday, April 26, 2025, with the first pitch scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET. The Cubs are riding high on a three-game winning streak, while the Phillies are looking to bounce back after a tough loss to the same team just a day prior.
Both teams come into this game with distinct narratives. The Cubs are currently at the top of the National League Central and have shown their offensive prowess, leading the league in runs per game at 6.27, batting average at .265, and OPS at .806. They have also demonstrated their ability to steal bases effectively, ranking first in the league with 40 stolen bases. Their recent performances have showcased their offensive depth, highlighted by standout players like Kyle Tucker, who boasts a .308 batting average, seven home runs, and 25 RBIs.
On the other hand, the Phillies find themselves in a challenging spot. After being swept by the New York Mets in their previous series, they struggled to produce runs, managing only eight across three games. This has put them in second place in the NL East, and they are looking to regain their momentum against the Cubs. The Phillies' offense has been inconsistent, with key players like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber needing to step up to support their pitching staff.
In terms of pitching, the Cubs will send Ben Brown (2-1, 4.57 ERA) to the mound. Brown last pitched on April 19 against the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he threw four innings, allowing one earned run on three hits. This will be his fifth start of the season, and he has averaged 10.8 strikeouts per nine innings, although he has also allowed 5.4 walks per nine innings. His ability to control the game early could be crucial for the Cubs as they look to maintain their winning streak.
The Phillies will counter with Jesús Luzardo (2-0, 2.08 ERA), who has been a bright spot in their rotation. Luzardo's last appearance was on April 20 against the Miami Marlins, where he pitched seven innings, giving up just one earned run and striking out six. With a solid 10.7 strikeouts per nine innings, Luzardo has been effective at keeping opposing batters at bay, holding them to a .232 batting average. This matchup between Brown and Luzardo is poised to be a key factor in determining the outcome of the game.
As for the leading hitters for the Cubs, they include:
- Kyle Tucker: .308 BA, 7 HR, 25 RBI
- Pete Crow-Armstrong: .295 BA, 5 HR, 18 RBI
- Carson Kelly: .341 BA, 6 HR, 18 RBI
- Ian Happ: .274 BA, 2 HR, 14 RBI
- Seiya Suzuki: .283 BA, 6 HR, 20 RBI
Meanwhile, the Phillies' offensive leaders are:
- Kyle Schwarber: .250 BA, 7 HR, 16 RBI
- Bryce Harper: .240 BA, 5 HR, 14 RBI
- Bryson Stott: .284 BA, 2 HR, 13 RBI
- Nicholas Castellanos: .277 BA, 3 HR, 15 RBI
- Trea Turner: .247 BA, 1 HR, 7 RBI
Injuries could also play a role in today's game. The Cubs are missing several key players, including Tyson Miller (15-day IL, hip), Javier Assad (15-day IL, oblique), Ryan David Brasier (15-day IL, hip), Eli Morgan (15-day IL, elbow), and Justin Steele (60-day IL, elbow). The Phillies, meanwhile, will be without Brandon Marsh (10-day IL, hamstring) and Ranger Suárez (15-day IL, back), while Cristopher Sanchez is listed as day-to-day with a forearm issue.
As the game approaches, fans are buzzing with excitement. The Cubs hope to continue their winning ways, while the Phillies are determined to turn their fortunes around. With both teams having strong offensive capabilities and solid starting pitchers, this matchup promises to deliver intensity and drama.
Expect the atmosphere at Wrigley Field to be electric as the Cubs aim to secure another victory against the Phillies, who are eager to even the score after a disappointing loss just a day prior. Tune in to watch the action unfold live on FOX or stream the game on Fubo.
With both teams having a lot at stake, this game is set up to be a thrilling encounter in the heart of the baseball season.
