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This weekend’s matchup between the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers brings together two of the hottest teams in the National League. The Dodgers remain a powerhouse at the top of the NL West, while the Cubs arrive in Los Angeles as the active win streak leader.
Games
- Fri, Apr 24 (Jameson Taillon vs Emmet Sheehan)
- Sat, Apr 25 (Colin Rea vs Roki Sasaki)
- Sun, Apr 26 (Shota Imanaga vs Justin Wrobleski)
Cubs Preview:
Chicago enters this series on a nine-game winning streak, the longest in Major League Baseball this season, and they’ve completely flipped the tone of their year in the process.
The Cubs now sit at 16–9, right near the top of the NL Central and climbing fast. Their recent surge has been fueled by a complete-team effort. During the winning streak, they’ve dominated on both sides of the ball, scoring 66 runs with a +39 run differential while also posting one of the lowest ERAs in the league over that span.
What stands out most is how they’re winning. Their .329 batting average during this stretch is unprecedented, accumulating 107 hits with 16 home runs. One can argue that this winning streak hasn’t been as crazy as it seems, given each game was against the Phillies, and Mets, two teams that have slid dramatically this month. This weekend will be a huge test as they face the defending World Series champions.
Dodgers Preview:
Los Angeles continues to look like the team to beat in the National League. The defending champions sit at 16–8, tied atop the NL West, and have once again established themselves as one of baseball’s most complete rosters.
Dodgers have maintained elite production across the board. Their lineup remains one of the most potent in baseball, and their pitching depth continues to keep them in control of games. The Dodgers offense leads the league in both batting average (.279) and home runs (42), while their pitching ranks in the top 3 in both ERA (3.27) and wins (17).
Unlike the Cubs, the Dodgers haven’t needed a dramatic streak, they’ve simply been steady. They’ve consistently won series, limited prolonged slumps, and maintained their place near the top of the standings through balance and depth.
Keys For Each Team
Cubs – Keep the Momentum
Chicago’s confidence is at its peak right now. The key will be carrying that offensive rhythm into a tougher environment against elite pitching. If their starters continue to limit damage early and the lineup stays aggressive, they can extend this streak against top competition.
Dodgers – Disrupt the Rhythm Early
The Dodgers’ best path is to stop Chicago before the game settles in. Getting ahead early, both offensively and on the mound, can neutralize the Cubs’ momentum and force them out of their comfort zone. Against a team this hot, controlling tempo is everything.
