Thu Oct 02 21:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite:

**Summary:**

The San Diego Padres and Chicago Cubs are facing off in a decisive Game 3 of the National League Wild Card Series at Wrigley Field. After splitting the first two games, the series comes down to a winner-take-all match. The Padres, led by Manny Machado, are drawing on their past playoff experience in similar situations. Yu Darvish, a former Cub, will start for San Diego, while Jameson Taillon will pitch for Chicago. Bullpen availability is a key factor for both teams, with both managers prepared to use all available arms. Key players on both sides need to improve their offensive production.

**News Article:**

**Padres and Cubs Clash in Winner-Take-All Playoff Showdown at Wrigley**

CHICAGO – Wrigley Field is set to host a high-stakes battle as the San Diego Padres and Chicago Cubs face off in a decisive Game 3 of the National League Wild Card Series on Thursday. With the series tied 1-1, the winner will advance and the loser will see their season come to an end.

The Padres, buoyed by a 3-0 victory in Game 2, are drawing on past playoff experience in winner-take-all scenarios. “Same mindset, continue to go,” said Padres star Manny Machado. “Our backs are still up against the wall.”

The Cubs, energized by their Game 1 win which marked their first playoff victory since 2017, are looking to usher in a new era of success for the franchise. “We knew it was going to be tough,” said Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. “We’re also prepared to come back [for Game 3] and do it again.”

Yu Darvish, a former Cub, will take the mound for the Padres, seeking to replicate his past playoff success. He’ll be opposed by the Cubs’ Jameson Taillon, who finished the season strong.

Both teams will rely heavily on their bullpens, with managers expected to use all available arms. Key offensive contributors on both sides, including Happ, Crow-Armstrong, O’Hearn, Sheets, and Cronenworth, are looking to break out of their early-series slumps. First pitch is scheduled for 5:08 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ESPN.

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