The Milwaukee Brewers enter the 2025 National League Division Series against the Chicago Cubs as NL Central champions with the best record in MLB at 97-65. The Crew will face a familiar rival, the Chicago Cubs, in a playoff matchup filled with intrigue and intensity. Important to consider going into this matchup is that the Brewers’ edge comes from their pitching depth, balanced lineup, and big-game experience. For the Brewers to advance, a blend of stars and emerging talents must rise above the pressure.
Why the Brewers Hold the Edge in the NLDS Showdown with the Cubs
The foundation of the Brewers’ success is their elite pitching staff, led by ace Freddy Peralta, who gets the ball in Game 1 after a week of rest. Their bullpen, shored up by multi-inning arms like Aaron Ashby and Jared Koenig, gives manager Pat Murphy flexibility against a Cubs lineup that finished with the second-most home runs in the National League. The Brewers also boast the league’s best run differential (+172) with the ability to squeeze out close wins. On offense, Christian Yelich has powered the lineup, while Andrew Vaughn and William Contreras provide the right-handed punch crucial against Chicago’s lefty starters. The Brewers’ “put-it-in-play” approach challenges even the Cubs’ elite defense. This ensures that any mistake can lead to a big inning.
Our All-Star. Our Ace. Our Game-1 Starter.#MagicBrew pic.twitter.com/U2ZHLsMkyr
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) October 3, 2025
Who Needs to Step Up
Jacob Misiorowski
Milwaukee’s electric rookie right-hander Jacob Misiorowski is on the NLDS roster and could swing a game with high-leverage relief work. A shutdown inning or two from Misiorowski could tilt the momentum.
William Contreras
The All-Star catcher’s bat and leadership will be tested against the Cubs’ aggressive running and contact attack.
Andruw Monasterio
Steady defense and timely hits from infield utility man Andruw Monasterio are vital, especially if the games turn into low-scoring duels.
Andrew Vaughn
After a scorching summer, Vaughn cooled off late. A rebound at the plate could lengthen the lineup and add punch against Chicago’s right-handed relievers.
The Last Word
For the Brewers, this NLDS matchup is about capitalizing on home-field advantage, leveraging fresh arms, and banking on Yelich’s leadership. The Cubs’ power and defensive prowess can’t be overlooked. The Brewers’ core needs to step up while getting contributions from their young arms and depth bats for a deep October run.
Main Photo Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
