Cubs shine defensively in Game 3 win, advance to NLDS

Cubs Secure Postseason Series Win Against Padres

The Cubs clinched a 3-1 victory over the Padres on Thursday night, marking their first postseason series win since 2017. They will now advance to face the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Division Series at American Family Field on Saturday.

In the deciding game of the Wild Card Series, the Cubs' offense was led by Tucker, who kickstarted a rally in the second inning against Padres' starter Yu Darvish. Despite a strained left calf, Tucker's disciplined approach and timely hits have been crucial for the team.

Tucker's performance in recent games has showcased his hitting prowess, reminiscent of his days with the Houston Astros. His consistency at the plate has elevated the Cubs' playoff potential significantly.

On the Padres' side, the game mirrored a disappointing end to last year's postseason, with Darvish facing a short outing and the team's star-studded offense failing to deliver. The Padres now face offseason questions regarding their aging core and future strategies.

The Cubs' strong defensive plays, highlighted by Crow-Armstrong, Swanson, and Hoerner, were instrumental in securing the victory. Their defensive prowess has been a cornerstone of the team's success and will be crucial in the upcoming series against the Brewers.

As the Cubs prepare to face the Brewers in the next round, all eyes will be on Cubs manager Craig Counsell, who will return to his hometown to lead the team against his former club. The matchup adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming series between the two NL Central rivals.