The 2025 San Diego Padres vs. Chicago Cubs NL Wild Card series comes down to a decisive Game 3, with Yu Darvish starting at Wrigley Field. The winner moves on to the NLDS, the loser goes home.

After splitting the first two games, both teams confirmed their starters late Wednesday. ESPN’s Jesse Rogers posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) that Cubs manager Craig Counsell tabbed Jameson Taillon, while Padres skipper Mike Shildt countered with Darvish. The matchup instantly sparked fan buzz.

“The Cubs will start Jameson Taillon in Game 3. The Padres will counter with former Cub Yu Darvish.”

The announcement adds drama, with the 13-year-veteran returning to face his old team in front of a packed Wrigley Field. The veteran right-hander has struggled in 2025 with a 5.38 ERA across

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