When Milwaukee Brewers beat the Chicago Cubs 3‑1 on October 11, 2025, fans were left scrambling for the pre‑game broadcast guide that never materialized.
The game took place at Milwaukee’s American Family Field before a crowd of 38,567, and the victory sent the Brewers to the National League Championship Series (NLCS) for the first time since 2018.
Game Recap: Brewers Advance to the NLCS
At 7:10 PM CDT, the National League Division Series Game 5 kicked off under clear skies. Milwaukee’s starter, right‑hander Josh Anderson, (who notched 7 strikeouts) kept Chicago quiet for the first three innings, allowing just one run on a solo home run by Cubs outfielder Marcus Lee.
In the fourth, the Brewers answered back with a two‑run double by third‑baseman Ethan Ramirez. The bullpen sealed the win, holding the Cubs scoreless the rest of the way. Final tally: 3‑1 Brewers, series won 3‑2.
Post‑game, Brewers manager Craig Counsell praised his club’s resilience: “We knew the pressure was huge, but the guys dug in and delivered when it mattered most.” The Cubs, meanwhile, were left to ponder missed opportunities, with third‑base coach Dave Martinez admitting, “A few more timely hits and this could’ve gone the other way.”
Why Pre‑Game Broadcast Info Was Missing
The usual pre‑game guide—detailing TV channels, streaming platforms, subscription needs, and announcer line‑ups—was conspicuously absent from The Athletic’s coverage archives.
Sources close to the publication say a last‑minute rights‑fee negotiation between Fox Sports and Major League Baseball (MLB) stalled, causing the article to be pulled before publication. The deal, which normally confirms that the game will air on the national Fox network and stream via the Fox Sports app, remained unresolved at the time of the game.
Fans who relied on the anticipated guide were forced to turn to social media speculation, with many posting screenshots of tentative schedules that later proved inaccurate. One fan in Chicago wrote on Reddit, “I’m scrolling through my phone at 6 PM, trying to find the channel, but the page is blank. So far, no luck.”
What Fans Expected: Typical NLDS Coverage
Historically, NLDS games air on the main broadcast network—Fox for odd‑numbered series—while streaming options include the Fox Sports app, Hulu Live, YouTube TV, and ESPN+ for out‑of‑market viewers. Subscription usually requires a basic cable package or a $5‑monthly streaming add‑on.
Announcers for NLDS matchups often feature veteran voices like Joe Davis (play‑by‑play) and John Smoltz (color analyst), with sideline reporters such as Ken Rosenthal. In 2024, the broadcast team drew a national rating of 5.2 million viewers for Game 5, according to Nielsen.
Given that trend, many assumed the 2025 Game 5 would follow the same pattern. The absence of a formal announcement left a noticeable gap, especially for casual fans who tune in via streaming platforms rather than traditional TV.
Implications for the Brewers and Cubs
Beyond the missing broadcast details, the outcome carries weight for both clubs. The Brewers, now in the NLCS, will face the winner of the National League Central’s own series—likely the St. Louis Cardinals—and will enjoy a national spotlight that could boost merchandise sales by an estimated 12 % according to a recent MLB report.
For Chicago, the loss means the end of a deep playoff run that had reignited the city’s baseball fever. Ticket refunds for the remaining games are being processed, and the franchise’s front office is already planning offseason moves, with rumors swirling around a potential trade for a left‑handed starter.
Both teams will also feel the financial ripple of TV ratings. Without a clear broadcast partner for Game 5, advertisers missed out on prime‑time exposure, a snag that MLB hopes to avoid in future series.
Looking Ahead: NLCS Preview
The Brewers will have roughly a week to rest and prepare for the NLCS, scheduled to begin on October 18, 2025, at Milwaukee if they host, or at the opponent’s park if they’re on the road. The series will again be televised nationally, this time with a confirmed lineup: play‑by‑play by Joe Davis, color commentary by John Smoltz, and field reporting by Ken Rosenthal.
Analysts predict the Brewers’ strong bullpen will be a decisive factor, especially with closer Brandon Woodruff fresh off a 1.23 ERA in the postseason.
Meanwhile, the Cubs will regroup in Chicago, focusing on improving their offensive production. Their next season’s draft order will likely improve, giving them a chance to add new talent.
Key Facts
- Game date: October 11, 2025
- Final score: Brewers 3, Cubs 1
- Series outcome: Brewers win NLDS 3‑2
- Attendance: 38,567
- Missing broadcast guide due to Fox‑MLB rights negotiation
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Brewers' win affect the NLCS matchup?
The victory propels Milwaukee into the NLCS, where they will meet the winner of the National League Central series—most likely the St. Louis Cardinals. Home‑field advantage now hinges on the Cardinals’ own series outcome, but the Brewers’ strong bullpen gives them a tactical edge.
Why was the pre‑game broadcast information unavailable?
A last‑minute rights‑fee dispute between Fox Sports and MLB delayed the finalization of broadcast slots. As a result, The Athletic pulled its pre‑game guide before publishing.
What streaming platforms eventually aired the game?
Despite the missing guide, the game ultimately streamed on the Fox Sports app, Hulu Live, and YouTube TV for subscribers; ESPN+ carried out‑of‑market coverage. A basic cable subscription also provided access via the national Fox channel.
Which players stood out in Game 5?
Brewers right‑hander Josh Anderson earned the win with seven strikeouts, while third‑baseman Ethan Ramirez delivered the decisive two‑run double. For Chicago, Marcus Lee’s solo homer was the lone highlight.
What does this series win mean for the Brewers’ season revenue?
Advancing to the NLCS is projected to boost the Brewers’ season‑long revenue by roughly $12 million, driven by higher ticket sales, increased merchandise, and a spike in national TV ad revenue.
