Wrigley Field NLDS 2025 : The Chicago Cubs have released their lineup for Game 4 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Milwaukee Brewers, facing elimination at Wrigley Field on October 9, 2025. With the series tied 2-1 in favor of Milwaukee, the Cubs must win to force a decisive Game 5, making this a high-stakes showdown under the lights. The announced lineup features no changes from previous games, maintaining consistency in a must-win situation.
Cubs’ Full Lineup and Strategy
The batting order remains unchanged, with Michael Busch leading off at first base, followed by Nico Hoerner at second base, and Kyle Tucker serving as the designated hitter. Seiya Suzuki takes right field, Ian Happ in left, and Carson Kelly behind the plate. Pete Crow-Armstrong patrols center field, Dansby Swanson handles shortstop, and rookie Matt Shaw starts at third base. Manager Craig Counsell has opted for stability, sticking with the same group that faced Brewers’ ace Freddy Peralta earlier in the series.
Pitching Matchup: Boyd vs Peralta
The game features a critical pitching duel between left-hander Matthew Boyd for the Cubs and righty Freddy Peralta for the Brewers. Boyd, who struggled in his previous outing due to fatigue and a costly error, returns on normal rest and hopes to rebound at home. Peralta, making his sixth start against Chicago this season, owns a 2.45 ERA at Wrigley despite being weaker on the road overall. His performance on four days’ rest adds a slight edge for the Cubs’ hitters, who recently faced him.
Game Context and Broadcast Details
- A Cubs victory would shift the series back to Milwaukee for Game 5, where the Brewers
- lack a reliable starter behind Peralta. The game started at 8:08 PM CT
- and was broadcast nationally on TBS, HBO Max, and ESPN Radio, with local coverage
- on 670 The Score. Weather conditions at Wrigley Field were cool, with temperatures
- around 56°F and light wind blowing from right to left field, potentially aiding outfield defense.
Key Injuries and Roster Impact
Both teams entered the game with notable absences. The Cubs were without Justin Steele, Cade Horton, and Owen Caissie, limiting depth in rotation and outfield. Milwaukee missed starters Brandon Woodruff and Jordan Montgomery, along with outfielder Garrett Mitchell, weakening their bench and bullpen options.
- With everything on the line, the Cubs’ offense must generate runs beyond the first inning
- and capitalize on Peralta’s slight vulnerabilities. Fans across Chicago rallied behind the
- team, hoping for a dramatic turnaround at their historic home ballpark.
