By any reasonable measure, the 2025 Chicago Cubs gave the fans something to cheer about — and left us believing that the next title run might really be within reach.

A Strong Start, a Thrilling Finish

From the outset, 2025 looked different for the Cubs. They leapt out of the gate at 37–22, their best start since the 2016 championship run. That’s not just momentum — that’s a statement. Often, seasons are defined by how teams begin; for Chicago, it set the tone for renewed optimism.

By mid-September, the Cubs clinched a playoff berth — their first postseason appearance in a non-shortened season since 2018. And perhaps even more satisfying: they broke through in the Wild Card round, defeating the Padres to notch their first postseason series win since 2017.

All told, the Cubs closed the regular season at 92–70, finishing second in the NL Central behind the Brewers.

Postseason Fight: Falling Just Short

Their NLDS matchup with the Brewers brought intensity, drama, and heartbreak in equal measure. While the Cubs ultimately fell 3 games to 2, their fight forced a deciding Game 5 and showcased resilience.

In Game 5, the Brewers’ bullpen and timely hitting edged Chicago, but the Cubs had crossed enemy lines and left no doubt — they were serious contenders.

This loss stings. But for a team whose preseason expectations were modest, the journey was more than enough to make the fan base proud.

Reasons to Be Proud

• Outperformed expectations: Many doubters predicted a rebuilding year. The Cubs instead challenged for division honors and made noise in October.
• Renewed crowd energy: Wrigley and CubsNation felt alive again; this team gave us something to root for, week in and week out.
• Developing core pieces: Whether it was a breakout performance or bullpen depth, the roster showed signs of being built for sustained success.
• Postseason hurdle cleared: The Wild Card victory was a long-awaited relief, proof that this squad can close out a series when it matters.

Looking Ahead to 2026: The Road to a World Series

If the front office makes the right calls this offseason, the Cubs are positioned to build on this success. Here’s what I hope they do:

1. Retain the core — stability breeds chemistry. Keeping key contributors intact should be a high priority.
2. Target bullpen reinforcements — postseason games often come down to arms and matchups.
3. Add strategic offense — balance is key; protecting against slumps will matter.
4. Continuity in leadership — Coach, front office, and analytics alignment will be essential.
5. Depth over flash — injuries happen. The Cubs need bench strength to carry them through a long season.

If they thread that needle, there is absolutely a path to a World Series run in 2026.

To the Cubs Organization, Players & Fans: Congratulations and Hope

To the players — thank you for the fight. To the front office — thank you for building ambition. To the fans — this was your season, too — you stuck by them, cheered, worried, and celebrated in equal measure.

Though the postseason ended earlier than we hoped, know this: you redeemed a season many had discounted. You made us believe again. You brought excitement, pride, and hope.

In 2026, I’ll be watching, rooting, believing. Here’s to another year of competitive baseball, heart, and maybe — just maybe — a World Series banner for the North Side.

Go Cubs!