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Chi. Cubs (92-70) at Milwaukee (97-65)
- When: Oct 4 2025, 2:08 PM
- Where: American Family Field, Milwaukee
- Where to watch: TBS
Chi. Cubs vs Milwaukee MLB Playoff Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Milwaukee -157
Spread: Milwaukee -1.5 (+150)
Total: 7.0
Chicago Cubs Betting Outlook
After finally snapping their playoff series drought with a 3-1 wild-card win over the Padres, the Cubs enter the NLDS with momentum. Former Brewers skipper Craig Counsell now leads Chicago against his old squad, adding extra juice to this Central Division showdown.
The Cubs’ Game 1 starter remains unannounced, but it’s expected to be either Colin Rea or Javier Assad. Both righties have been steady down the stretch, Rea posted a 2.63 ERA over his final five outings, while Assad logged a 3.18 ERA in September. The offense clicked against San Diego, and the Cubs will need similar production to keep pace with Milwaukee’s deep rotation.
Chicago went 7-6 against the Brewers during the regular season, but matching Milwaukee’s firepower over a full series will be the real test.
Milwaukee Brewers Betting Outlook
The Brewers earned the NL’s No. 1 seed and a first-round bye with 97 wins, but their recent postseason history is shaky, having been eliminated early in back-to-back years. Now they’ll lean on ace Freddy Peralta to set the tone.
Peralta (17-6, 2.70 ERA) led the NL in wins and has been excellent all season. He’s well-rested and owns a strong track record vs. the Cubs, 9-3 lifetime with a 3.21 ERA, including four solid starts this year. Milwaukee’s well-rounded attack and deep bullpen give them a serious edge in this series.
With Brandon Woodruff officially ruled out for the NLDS, the Brewers will need Peralta to shoulder the load even more.
Betting Insight & Prediction
The Brewers’ rest advantage, home-field dominance, and Peralta’s presence on the mound position them well to open the NLDS with a win. Chicago has shown fight, but this is a step up in class and competition.
Score Prediction: Brewers 4, Cubs 2
Pick: Milwaukee -1.5 (+150)
Total: Under 7.0 (+105)
- MLB Playoff Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
