Cubs Turn to Drew Pomeranz in Game 5, Brewers Win 3-1 to Advance

Caden Levingston

When Drew Pomeranz, left‑handed pitcher of the Chicago Cubs took the mound on October 11, 2025, the stakes were crystal clear: a win would keep Chicago alive, a loss would end a season that had already defied expectations.

The decision, announced by Craig Counsell, the Cubs’ manager, came just after ESPN reporter Jesse Rogers broke the news on social media. The game was set at American Family Field, the home of the Milwaukee Brewers, and it would be the decisive fifth contest of the National League Division SeriesMilwaukee.

Why Pomeranz Got the Call

Counterintuitively, Pomeranz had spent most of the 2025 regular season shuttling between the bullpen and spot starts. Yet his left‑handed split‑facing ability against a Brewers lineup that leans heavily on right‑handed power made sense strategically. Counsell’s choice echoed a pattern seen in past NLDS match‑ups, where managers lean on veteran arms to disrupt timing.

“We needed a pitcher who could eat innings and keep the opposing hitters honest,” Counsell said in a pre‑game press conference. “Drew’s experience and his ability to throw a changeup that slides away from a right‑hander gave us the best chance.”

How the Game Unfolded

The early innings were tense. Pomeranz settled in, delivering five solid frames, striking out nine batters while allowing just two runs—all earned in the third inning after a misplayed grounder.

Milwaukee’s offense, led by Colin Mervis, snapped a two‑run double in the seventh to bring the score to 3‑1. The Brewers’ bullpen, anchored by Josh Hader, shut the door, limiting Chicago’s comeback hopes.

When the final out was recorded, the Brewers celebrated on home turf, while the Cubs slumped into a locker‑room that smelled of cold pizza and lingering disappointment.

Post‑Game Reactions

In the immediate aftermath, Pomeranz fielded questions from the media crew of Marquee Sports Network. He reflected on an "unusual" season, noting, “I came here in July, barely knew the city, and now I’m standing on this mound in Game 5. It’s been a whirlwind.”

Counsell, visibly flushed, praised his staff while acknowledging the harsh reality of an early exit. “We gave it everything,” he said, “but baseball is a game of inches, and tonight the inches weren’t on our side.”

What the Series Means for Both Clubs

For Milwaukee, the 3‑1 victory capped a three‑game home winning streak and locked them into the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the eventual winner of the NL West. The Brewers now sit at a 4‑2 series lead in the NLCS, positioning themselves for a rare World Series appearance.

The Cubs, however, face a crossroads. Their 2025 campaign—marked by mid‑season acquisitions, a COVID‑era roster overhaul, and a September surge—ended earlier than many fans hoped. Yet the run to Game 5 highlighted the emergence of young talents like Ian Happ and the steadying presence of veterans.

Looking Ahead: Off‑Season Moves and Futures

Chicago’s front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, is already charting a path forward. Rumors swirl around potential trades for a frontline starter and a bullpen overhaul, with the deadline looming in December.

Milwaukee’s General Manager Pat Murphy will likely look to reinforce the outfield, adding depth for a possible World Series run.

• Game 5 final score: Brewers 3, Cubs 1.
• Pomeranz’s line: 5 IP, 2 R, 9 K.
• Key Brewers hitters: Colin Mervis (RBI double), William Contreras (solo HR).
• Next round: Brewers vs. NLCS opponent (likely Los Angeles Dodgers).
• Cubs’ offseason focus: starting rotation, bullpen stability.