Cubs Face Tough Loss Despite Controversial No-Call in Game 3

UPDATE: In a dramatic Game 3 showdown at Wrigley Field on October 8, 2025, the Chicago Cubs faced a tough loss against the Milwaukee Brewers, with a controversial no-call on an infield fly play igniting discussions among players and fans alike.

As the game progressed, temperature drops added to the October atmosphere, but the action heated up early. With runners on first and second base in the first inning, catcher William Contreras hit a high pop-up that should have been ruled an out under the infield fly rule. Umpires, however, did not make the call, allowing the play to unfold, which ultimately led to the Brewers scoring the first run of the game.

Cubs first baseman Michael Busch struggled to locate the ball in the sun, and second baseman Nico Hoerner sprinted from second but couldn’t reach it in time. The ball landed in fair territory, and the Brewers capitalized as Christian Yelich scored during Sal Frelick‘s sacrifice fly. Hoerner reflected, “The ruling makes sense, right? You don’t call it unless the out is assumed, and we didn’t have a fielder in the area yet.”

Following this play, Cubs manager Craig Counsell stated, “You have to have a player that’s going to catch it to call infield fly, and we never had a player really close to catching it.” His sentiments echoed throughout the Cubs’ locker room following the game.

The Brewers’ starting pitcher, Quinn Priester, faced significant challenges, yielding all four runs against him before being pulled after just two-thirds of an inning. “Very frustrated,” Priester admitted. “The command wasn’t good. Ultimately it falls onto me to make an adjustment.” Despite this setback, Priester remains hopeful for the future, stating, “One game isn’t going to define myself or our team.”

Looking ahead, the Cubs are now forced to prepare for Game 4 on Thursday at 7:00 PM CDT. Their starting pitching situation is precarious, with Cade Horton out due to a broken rib, and their pitchers struggling in the earlier games of this series. The likely return to the mound will be left-hander Matthew Boyd, who only threw 30 pitches in his previous outing. “When that time comes, I’ll be ready,” Boyd declared confidently.

Cubs pitcher Jameson Taillon expressed faith in Boyd’s abilities, saying, “I’m excited to watch him.” However, the Cubs will face tough decisions regarding their relievers, who were heavily utilized in Game 3. Manager Counsell noted, “I don’t think any of them threw more than 20 pitches. I anticipate being in pretty good shape.”

As the Cubs aim to force a Game 5 on Saturday in Milwaukee, fans and players alike are left wondering how the team will navigate their pitching challenges. Taillon hinted at his willingness to step up, stating, “I’m definitely going to be available, though. Just depends if they want me or not.”

The outcome of Game 3 has significant implications for both teams as they continue their pursuit of postseason glory. Stay tuned for updates as the Cubs and Brewers prepare for their next face-off.