Cubs-Padres playoff rematch flips the script and home field could change everything

October baseball always has a funny way of bringing old enemies together, only this time there’s a change of address. One year after the Chicago Cubs eliminated the San Diego Padres in three games at Wrigley Field in the 2025 National League Wild Card Series, the two teams will meet again in a rematch Tuesday night at Petco Park. The Cubs won five of six meetings between the teams this season, including a football score of 23-3 back in July.The Cubs also bring baseball’s most productive offense, an extraordinary defense, and the likely NL MVP in Pete Crow-Armstrong. But July 1 is in the past.

The Padres caught fire during the final two months of the season, finishing with the best record in baseball over their final 59 games at 41-18, earning the right to have the sequel held at Petco Park.  The biggest news, opinion and culture shaping California right now.Please provide a valid email.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Here’s how the California Post views the matchup this season:Advantage: PadresThe Cubs can rake.

They led the majors in OPS and the NL in homers this season.Crow-Armstrong was a gold glove-caliber centerfielder and a 40-40 wrecking ball on offense.

Alex Bregman, in his first season with the Cubs, has been bludgeoning opponents.He returned from taking a foul ball off the face by going 4-for-4 with two homers in Chicago’s final game of the regular season on Sunday. However, the Padres possess the weapon that everyone in the postseason wants: a lights out bullpen.

It essentially shrinks the game from nine innings to six when you have three relievers capable of dominating the opposing lineup. If San Diego has questions, it’s their starting pitching.Michael King is expected to start Game 1 on Tuesday after a 3.21 ERA this season.

The Padres just need him to get through six innings with the lead so they can hand the ball to Adri...