The Chicago Cubs have officially set their 26-man roster for the upcoming National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Milwaukee Brewers, a crucial matchup that commences today, October 4, 2025. This marks the North Siders’ first playoff appearance since 2020, adding significant weight to this intra-division clash. The team’s roster construction reflects strategic decisions aimed at navigating the best-of-five series against a familiar foe, with notable inclusions and significant injury setbacks shaping their postseason path.
Roster Moves: Ben Brown Added, Taylor Rogers Out
The most significant roster change announced by the Cubs involves the addition of right-handed pitcher Ben Brown, who replaces left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers. This move signals manager Craig Counsell’s strategic focus on deploying high-velocity arms and capitalizing on specific matchup advantages against the Brewers’ lineup. Brown, known for his potent swing-and-miss capabilities, has a proven track record against Milwaukee, making him a valuable, albeit high-risk, high-reward option for Counsell. His inclusion over the more versatile Javier Assad suggests a preference for pure stuff in critical playoff situations. While Rogers’s departure might stem from recent struggles and a desire for more right-handed pitching depth, Brown’s ability to generate strikeouts could be pivotal in high-leverage moments.
The Cubs’ roster features a balance of 12 pitchers and 14 position players, a common configuration for playoff series, allowing flexibility for Counsell to manage workloads across the potential five games. This roster aims to build upon the momentum gained from their thrilling Wild Card Series victory over the San Diego Padres.
Major Injury Setbacks: Horton and Woodruff Sidelined
Both the Cubs and the Brewers are contending with significant injuries to key starting pitchers, impacting the series dynamics. The Chicago Cubs will be without rookie sensation Cade Horton, who has been officially ruled out for the NLDS due to a rib fracture. Horton’s absence is a substantial blow to the Cubs’ pitching staff, particularly given his exceptional performance in the second half of the season, where he posted an elite 1.03 ERA after the All-Star break. His injury, sustained late in the regular season, prevents him from contributing to the team’s critical postseason run, with his availability for later rounds remaining uncertain.
Similarly, the Milwaukee Brewers will be missing right-handed ace Brandon Woodruff. Woodruff is sidelined with a right lat strain and will not pitch in the NLDS, though the Brewers are reportedly not closing the door on a potential return later in the postseason if they advance. This injury is unrelated to the significant shoulder surgery Woodruff underwent in 2023. While his absence weakens Milwaukee’s rotation depth, Woodruff’s potential availability for a later series adds a layer of intrigue.
Path to the Postseason and Rivalry Renewed
The Cubs’ journey to this NLDS began with a hard-fought Wild Card Series triumph against the San Diego Padres, marking their first playoff series victory since 2017 and ending a postseason drought that stretched back to 2020. This resurgence as a trending Chicago sports story is amplified by their historic rivalry with the Milwaukee Brewers, who clinched the NL Central title. The familiarity between these two division rivals is immense, with managers and players possessing extensive knowledge of each other’s tendencies.
Strategic Outlook for Game 1 and Beyond
The series kicks off today, October 4, 2025, with Game 1 featuring a compelling pitching matchup between the Cubs’ veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd and the Brewers’ ace Freddy Peralta. Boyd will take the mound on short rest, a testament to his importance and the team’s confidence in him, especially after his solid outing in the Wild Card Series. The Cubs’ bullpen, a strength during their Wild Card win, is now further bolstered by Ben Brown’s inclusion, providing Counsell with more options for crucial late-game situations. With three off-days built into the NLDS schedule, the Cubs might opt for a three-man starting rotation, though Colin Rea could also be called upon. The series opener promises to be a tightly contested affair, reflecting the deep-seated animosity and respect between these two NL Central titans.
The Chicago Cubs are entering a pivotal postseason series with a roster finalized and a clear strategy in place. While key injuries present challenges, the team’s recent momentum, strategic roster additions, and deep understanding of their opponent set the stage for an intense and compelling National League Division Series.
