The Chicago Cubs are back in action as they continue their push for the 2025 MLB postseason, taking on the Tampa Bay Rays in a crucial matchup on Sunday, September 14, 2025. This game has massive implications for the National League Wild Card race, and the Cubs know every win matters as the season heads into the home stretch.
On the mound for the Cubs will be Shota Imanaga, who has been one of the most consistent arms in Chicago’s rotation throughout the 2025 season. Imanaga has delivered quality starts time and time again, showcasing his elite command, deceptive fastball, and devastating splitter. His performance has been key in stabilizing the Cubs’ staff, especially with injuries and inconsistencies elsewhere in the rotation. Cubs fans will be looking for Imanaga to deliver another strong outing in this must-win matchup.
Opposing Imanaga will be Adrian Houser, who takes the ball for the Tampa Bay Rays. Houser, a veteran right-hander, has shown flashes of effectiveness throughout his career with his sinker-heavy approach. However, the Cubs lineup will be looking to take advantage early, especially with players like Kyle Tucker, Seiya Suzuki, Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA), and Ian Happ providing balance throughout the batting order. If the Cubs’ offense can get to Houser quickly, it could set the tone for the entire series.
This series against the Rays is not just about one game — it’s about the bigger picture. The Cubs are locked in a tight battle for a Wild Card spot in the National League, competing with teams like the Padres, Reds and Mets. Every series in September has a playoff feel, and the Cubs know that taking this series from Tampa Bay could be the difference between playing October baseball or falling just short.
Fans should also keep an eye on the bullpen, where manager Craig Counsell has had to shuffle roles late in the season. While Daniel Palencia has struggled in the closer role recently, other relievers like Brad Keller, Andrew Kittredge, and Caleb Thielbar could factor into the late innings of this important matchup. Counsell’s bullpen management will be crucial in high-leverage moments.
With just a few weeks left in the regular season, the Cubs’ margin for error is slim. The Rays are also fighting for position in the American League Wild Card race, which means both teams will be playing with urgency. This makes the September 14 game one of the most exciting interleague matchups of the weekend.
Key Storylines to Watch:
Shota Imanaga vs Adrian Houser: Can Imanaga outduel Houser and give the Cubs a series win?
Wild Card Impact: Every game matters as the Cubs fight to secure a postseason berth.
Offensive Production: Will stars like Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki step up in the clutch?
Bullpen Decisions: Can Counsell trust his relievers in a must-win game?
Cubs fans, buckle up — this is where the season gets real. Winning this series against the Rays could provide the momentum Chicago needs heading into the final stretch of the 2025 MLB season.
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