Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates: Game Preview - September 17, 2025
The Chicago Cubs face the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 11:35 a.m. CT in what will be the next-to-last weekday afternoon game of the season for the Cubs. Today's game presents the Cubs with an opportunity to sweep the series and further solidify their playoff position. The game will be broadcast on the Marquee Sports Network.
Wednesday Game Notes
The Cubs are currently 19-13 in weekday matinee games, boasting a 6-4 record on the road in such contests. One of their road wins includes an 8-3 victory against the Pirates earlier in the season. This game marks their penultimate weekday afternoon game of the season, with the final one scheduled for September 26 against the Cardinals.
Sweep Potential
This series against the Pirates marks the 15th out of 50 series this season where the Cubs have won the first two games. They have successfully completed sweeps in five previous series, including road victories against the Athletics in Sacramento and the Angels in Los Angeles. Failing that, the Cubs have to avoid losing the third game, a feat they've unfortunately suffered eight times already this season.
Playoff Implications: Magic Numbers
The Cubs' magic number to clinch a postseason spot is currently 1. Their magic number to secure the top wild-card spot over the Padres is 7. The tiebreaker scenario between the two teams involves their record within their respective divisions. The Padres currently stand at 29-20 against NL West teams, while the Cubs are 26-18 against NL Central teams with eight games remaining in the division.
Player Spotlight: Nico Hoerner
Nico Hoerner is currently riding an impressive 11-game hitting streak. During this span, he is batting .455/.510/.682 with five doubles, a triple, a home run, five RBI, four stolen bases, five walks, and 10 runs scored. His season batting average now sits at .301, just four points behind Trea Turner for the National League lead.
Starting Pitchers: Boyd vs. Oviedo
Matthew Boyd will start for the Cubs. He has struggled recently, posting a 5.31 ERA and 1.205 WHIP in his last seven starts. The Pirates will counter with Johan Oviedo, who is returning from Tommy John surgery and has pitched well in his six starts since his return, sporting a 2.81 ERA and 1.169 WHIP.
Lineups
Cubs Lineup: (Check official Cubs Twitter account for the most up to date details.)
Pirates Lineup: (Check official Pirates Twitter account for the most up to date details.)
Broadcast Information and Streaming Options
Today's game is available on the Marquee Sports Network. Check your local listings for availability. It will also be broadcast on MLB Network (outside the Cubs and Pirates market territories). Visit MLB.com for live streaming options and Baseball-Reference.com for a game preview.
