Read the Beforeitsnews.com story here. Advertise at Before It's News here.
Profile image
By Chi City Sports
Contributor profile | More stories
Story Views
Now:
Last hour:
Last 24 hours:
Total:

3 reasons Cubs fans should be optimistic about the team’s chances in NLDS Game 2

% of readers think this story is Fact. Add your two cents.


Chicago Cubs,Craig Counsell

Things did not go the Chicago Cubs way during Game 1 of the NLDS, with the Milwaukee Brewers winning by a score of 9-3. Starter Matthew Boyd was chased from the game in the first inning, Michael Soroka wasn’t sharp after him, and finally Aaron Civale was able to settle things down, but by then it was too late.

Sunday’s off day gave Chicago a much-needed chance to rest and regroup. But the real test comes Monday, when they’ll need a win to avoid falling into a 0-2 hole before the series shifts back to Wrigley.

Here, we take a look at three reasons why Chicago Cubs fans should be optimistic about the team’s chances in NLDS Game 2 1) Shota Imanaga has had good success against the Milwaukee Brewers this year

Shota Imanaga, Chicago Cubs
Sep 19, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Shota Imanaga (18) pitches against the Cincinnati Reds in the first inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Over three starts, Imanaga has a 3.57 ERA against Milwaukee this season, with one 7.0 inning outing underneath his belt. Furthermore, two of his starts this year came at American Family Field. Historically he has had Brice Turang, Sal Frelick, and Caleb Durbin, and Isaac Collins numbers, with them going a combined 3-31 against him. Collins figures to play a bigger role on Monday with Jackson Chourio’s status in question due to a hamstring injury.

2) Key bullpen arms got much needed rest

One positive of a non-competitive Game 1 is that Craig Counsell’s high-leverage relievers got some much needed rest. Against the Padres, Brad Keller threw 50 pitches, Daniel Palencia 39, and Andrew Kittredge 39 as well. With three days of rest, all will be available and at full strength.

3) In terms of pitching, the Brewers are using an “all hands on deck” approach going forward

Chicago Cubs, Cubs News
Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell (11) and Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy (49) shake hands before the National League Division Series game on Saturday October 4, 2025 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Starting Game 2 for the Brewers is southpaw Aaron Ashby. He pitched in Game 1, will be used as an opener, and isn’t expected to go long into the game. It is expected that Quinn Priester will follow him, who on paper is Milwaukee’s second best starting pitching option. Thankfully, the Cubs have had his number this season, scoring seven runs off of him in May. Furthermore, across three starts, Chicago has collected at least six hits off him each outing, and have drawn four and five walks against him on separate occasions. If he follows Ashby, the Cubs should look to capitalize on a matchup they’ve enjoyed so far this season.

Cubs fans have reasons to be optimistic heading into Game 2. Despite the Game 1 loss, Chicago has shown resilience all season, and with Imanaga on the mound, one of their most consistent starters, they’re well positioned to bounce back. Plus, the added rest and chance to reset could be just what this group needs to even the series before returning home to Wrigley.


Source: https://www.chicitysports.com/cubs-fans-optimistic-game-2-nlds-brewers


Before It’s News® is a community of individuals who report on what’s going on around them, from all around the world.

Anyone can join.
Anyone can contribute.
Anyone can become informed about their world.

"United We Stand" Click Here To Create Your Personal Citizen Journalist Account Today, Be Sure To Invite Your Friends.

Before It’s News® is a community of individuals who report on what’s going on around them, from all around the world. Anyone can join. Anyone can contribute. Anyone can become informed about their world. "United We Stand" Click Here To Create Your Personal Citizen Journalist Account Today, Be Sure To Invite Your Friends.


LION'S MANE PRODUCT


Try Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend 60 Capsules


Mushrooms are having a moment. One fabulous fungus in particular, lion’s mane, may help improve memory, depression and anxiety symptoms. They are also an excellent source of nutrients that show promise as a therapy for dementia, and other neurodegenerative diseases. If you’re living with anxiety or depression, you may be curious about all the therapy options out there — including the natural ones.Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend has been formulated to utilize the potency of Lion’s mane but also include the benefits of four other Highly Beneficial Mushrooms. Synergistically, they work together to Build your health through improving cognitive function and immunity regardless of your age. Our Nootropic not only improves your Cognitive Function and Activates your Immune System, but it benefits growth of Essential Gut Flora, further enhancing your Vitality.



Our Formula includes: Lion’s Mane Mushrooms which Increase Brain Power through nerve growth, lessen anxiety, reduce depression, and improve concentration. Its an excellent adaptogen, promotes sleep and improves immunity. Shiitake Mushrooms which Fight cancer cells and infectious disease, boost the immune system, promotes brain function, and serves as a source of B vitamins. Maitake Mushrooms which regulate blood sugar levels of diabetics, reduce hypertension and boosts the immune system. Reishi Mushrooms which Fight inflammation, liver disease, fatigue, tumor growth and cancer. They Improve skin disorders and soothes digestive problems, stomach ulcers and leaky gut syndrome. Chaga Mushrooms which have anti-aging effects, boost immune function, improve stamina and athletic performance, even act as a natural aphrodisiac, fighting diabetes and improving liver function. Try Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend 60 Capsules Today. Be 100% Satisfied or Receive a Full Money Back Guarantee. Order Yours Today by Following This Link.


Report abuse

Comments

Your Comments
Question   Razz  Sad   Evil  Exclaim  Smile  Redface  Biggrin  Surprised  Eek   Confused   Cool  LOL   Mad   Twisted  Rolleyes   Wink  Idea  Arrow  Neutral  Cry   Mr. Green

MOST RECENT
Load more ...

SignUp

Login