Padres vs. Cubs schedule: Times, TV channels, live streams scores for 2026 NL Wild Card playoff games

In the second consecutive season, the San Diego Padres and Chicago Cubs will clash in an NL Wild Card series. Last year's best-of-three series saw the Cubs emerge victorious, with each game featuring limited scoring opportunities. The 2026 matchup will take place at Petco Park, a pitcher-friendly ballpark that is likely to produce another tightly contested series.

The Padres, entering the postseason for the fourth time in five years, have a veteran roster but have struggled with their offense, notably with Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado going 2 for 22 combined during last year's series. The addition of Ty France, who has been impressive (.863 OPS, 21 HR), and Jackson Merrill (26 HR, 27 SB), may provide a boost to the Padres' lineup.

Among the Cubs' stars, Pete Crow-Armstrong is expected to take center stage. The 24-year-old, who made his postseason debut against San Diego in 2025, has been outstanding, leading the majors with a 9.8 WAR, 45 home runs, 119 runs scored, a .941 OPS, and 41 stolen bases. However, there is uncertainty regarding Alex Bregman's availability, as he returned to the lineup five days after suffering facial fractures from a foul ball hit on September 20.

The three-game series will be played entirely at Petco Park in San Diego, California. Game 1 is scheduled for Tuesday, September 29 at 8 PM ET on NBCSN, followed by Game 2 on Wednesday, September 30 at 10 PM ET on NBCSN. If necessary, Game 3 will be played on Thursday, October 1 at a TBD time on NBCSN, fubo, and Peacock. The live streams for the games will be available on fubo and Peacock.

The play-by-play will be provided by Dave Flemming, with analysis from Jim Deshaies, Mark Grant, and Clayton Kershaw.