Padres vs Cubs LIVE updates: Lineups, where to watch, predictions for MLB playoffs

The San Diego Padres host the Chicago Cubs in Game 1 of the National League wild card series on Tuesday at Petco Park, with each team looking to take a huge step towards the next round.

It's a rematch of last year's wild card series, won by the Cubs at Wrigley Field in Chicago. Right-hander Michael King will start the opener for the Padres, with southpaw Matthew Boyd taking the mound for the Cubs.

"Very professional lineup," King said of the Cubs' offense. "They were first in runs this year and it shows."

The Padres are trying to get back to the World Series for the first time since 1998 and are in the postseason for the fourth time in five years, undoubtedly the most successful spell in the franchise's history.

"It's a new year, it's a different year," Padres third baseman Manny Machado said. "Obviously, that stung last year for us. They played better ball than us last year. This year's going to be a little bit different. "

Where to watch Padres vs. Cubs: Channel, streaming

First pitch between the Padres and Cubs is scheduled for 10 p.m. (ET) on Tuesday, Sept. 29.

06:24 PM ET, September 29 2026, Jesse Yomtov

MLB playoffs open with thrilling Wild Card Series matchups

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