2025-07-29 Cubs at Brewers Matchup Preview

Starting Pitching Matchup

Colin Rea is slated to start for the Chicago Cubs, bringing his experience to the mound against a Brewers lineup aiming to exploit any weaknesses. Rea's approach relies on command and control, focusing on keeping hitters off balance with a mix of pitches. Meanwhile, Quinn Priester will take the ball for Milwaukee, looking to build on his season with a strong performance against a Cubs team known for its patient approach at the plate.

Cubs' Offensive Outlook

The Chicago Cubs' offense has displayed a disciplined approach at the plate, demonstrated by their walk percentage. This patience is key against Priester, as they will look to drive his pitch count up early and get into the Brewers' bullpen. Chicago's offensive approach is built around wearing down opposing pitchers and capitalizing on mistakes. Their offense has generated a team weighted on-base average that suggests an ability to get on base consistently and create scoring opportunities.

Brewers' Offensive Outlook

The Milwaukee Brewers' offense this season has been fueled by their ability to generate power, but also by a team strikeout percentage indicative of a lineup that can be susceptible to strikeouts. Against a pitcher like Rea, who prioritizes command, the Brewers will need to be selective at the plate and avoid chasing pitches out of the zone. The Brewers will be looking to improve on their team weighted on-base average, seeking to get runners on base to put pressure on Rea and the Cubs' defense.

Pitching Analysis

Colin Rea's success hinges on his ability to command the strike zone and induce weak contact. He's not a high-velocity pitcher, so movement and deception are crucial. His success is also reliant on his ability to maintain a high left on base percentage, maximizing the ability to work out of tough spots. The Cubs defense will need to be sharp behind him, turning ground balls into outs and making plays in the outfield. Quinn Priester, on the other hand, features a more power-oriented approach, relying on his fastball and slider to generate strikeouts. His success will depend on his ability to keep the ball down in the zone and avoid giving up home runs.

Hitting Analysis

The Cubs will look to exploit Priester's tendencies with a patient approach, working counts and waiting for mistakes. They have shown a strong tendency to avoid double plays with a low double play percentage. A key to the game will be their ability to hit with runners in scoring position, taking advantage of any opportunities Priester gives them. The Brewers will need to be aggressive early in the count against Rea, looking to jump on his fastball before he can settle in. Their success will depend on their ability to control their propensity for strikeouts and put the ball in play. They will want to limit allowing runners to get into scoring position, as that would hinder their scoring output.

Bullpen Outlook

Both teams will likely rely on their bullpens to navigate the later innings. The Cubs have constructed a bullpen with a mix of power arms and experienced veterans, capable of shutting down opposing offenses. The Brewers' bullpen also features several reliable arms, and their ability to bridge the gap to the closer will be crucial in a close game. How these bullpens perform can be a critical difference maker in this game.

Defensive Analysis

Defense will be a key factor in this matchup, as both teams have capable defenders at key positions. The Cubs' infield needs to be sharp behind Rea, turning ground balls into outs and preventing runners from advancing. The Brewers' outfield will need to be alert, tracking down fly balls and making strong throws to keep runners from scoring. Any defensive miscues could prove costly in a tight, late-inning situation.

Prediction

This game promises to be a tightly contested affair between two division rivals. The Cubs' patient offense and experienced starting pitcher give them a slight edge, while the Brewers' power and home-field advantage could make them a tough opponent. Expect a close, low-scoring game that comes down to timely hitting and solid defense.