October 1, 2026

Cubs Swept by Padres in NL Wild-Card Series

Offensive Struggles End Cubs’ Season

The Chicago Cubs failed to advance in the National League wild-card series against the San Diego Padres. The Padres swept the Cubs, whose bats were largely silent. The team managed only eight hits, most of them singles, across the series.

Game 1 Recap: Padres 8, Cubs 0

In the opening game at Petco Park, the Cubs were shut out 8-0. They had just three hits. Manager Craig Counsell expressed frustration about the team’s inability to score early. “You never want to play from behind,” said Counsell. “We didn’t score.”

Fernando Tatis Jr. led the Padres, scoring on a stolen base in the seventh inning. Cubs pitchers struggled to contain the Padres’ offense.

Game 2 Recap: Padres 4, Cubs 1

Game 2 ended in a 4-1 loss for the Cubs. Despite the efforts of Cubs pitchers Kevin Gausman, Daniel Palencia, David Peterson, and Ryan Zeferjahn, the team’s offense did not perform. The Cubs scored only one run and had nine hits over 18 innings in the series. Fans were left disappointed at the outcome.

Seiya Suzuki, right fielder for the Cubs, reflected on the season-ending in the dugout as the Padres celebrated. Cubs’ regular-season offensive prowess was not enough in this series.

Playoff Spot Celebration

Earlier, the Cubs secured their playoff spot with a win over the Marlins at Wrigley Field. Pete Crow-Armstrong celebrated with teammates, marking their postseason entry with festivities in the clubhouse.

The team enjoyed champagne showers, marking the achievement with enthusiasm. Despite this high, their postseason run ended in San Diego.

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