Thu Oct 02 21:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Cubs Get Last Laugh Against Former Pitcher Estrada in Wild Card Opener
**CHICAGO -** The Chicago Cubs drew first blood in the National League Wild Card series against the San Diego Padres, securing a 3-1 victory fueled in part by a run scored against former Cubs pitcher Jeremiah Estrada. Estrada, drafted by the Cubs in 2017 but designated for assignment in 2023, has been vocal about his feelings toward his former team since joining the Padres, suggesting the Cubs made a mistake letting him go.
Estrada, who has found success as a reliever in San Diego, made his animosity clear leading up to the series. “It’s not about eff you guys,” he told reporters. “It’s about, ‘This is what you guys missed out on.'” He previously admitted to staring down Cubs President Jed Hoyer earlier this season.
However, it was the Cubs who had the last laugh in Game 1. With a narrow 2-1 lead in the eighth inning, the Cubs capitalized on Estrada’s appearance, plating an insurance run to extend their lead.
Ironically, the Cubs’ bullpen, rebuilt by Hoyer, proved impenetrable after Matthew Boyd exited the game. Relievers Daniel Palencia, Drew Pomeranz, Andrew Kittredge, and Brad Keller combined for 14 consecutive outs, effectively shutting down the Padres’ offense and proving that, at least on Tuesday, the Cubs didn’t miss Estrada. The Cubs will look to continue their winning ways as the Wild Card series continues.
First Piper 