Milwaukee seized control in Game 1 as Chicago’s bats dried up early, setting the stage for a tense NLDS continuation. Laid‑back veteran leadership and a possible Chourio absence shape Milwaukee’s approach, while Chicago leans on Turner and Swanson to steady the clubhouse and offense.

Brewers hinge on how Jackson Chourio feels and whether Isaac Collins can step in, with the Cubs needing steady bullpen work and timely hits to rebound. The off-day cadence and veteran guidance add strategic depth as each side readies for a pivotal rematch.

Imanaga starts Game 2 for Chicago in a must-win NLDS clash with Milwaukee. The 32-year-old lefty brings a methodical, competitive mindset and a joyful mound presence that Counsell praised as fierce in execution. Milwaukee jumped ahead in Game 1, so Chicago leans on a veteran-led clubhouse—Turner, Swanson, Santana, Pomeranz—to steady the ship as the series shifts to a pivotal night.

Brewers vs. Cubs in the NLDS centers on rest vs. grind. Matthew Boyd’s short rest start for Chicago invites risk while Milwaukee leans on a fast, defense-first lineup featuring Jackson Chourio, Brice Turang, and William Contreras to spark early pressure. Blake Perkins adds elite defense and baserunning value; Sal Frelick provides speed up top. Freddy Peralta’s rest-accustomed ace status looms large as Chicago counters with a resourceful bullpen and a nimble infield led by Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson. Michael Busch fuels Cubs’ power, while a leadoff homer and timely defense shape the chase for fantasy relevance in multiple lineups.

Rotation decisions drive fantasy upside: Cubs’ Javier Assad is out of NLDS contention, pushing Boyd into an iffy role on short rest, while Milwaukee’s bullpen usage could tilt leverage and save chances. Chicago’s middle infield defense (Hoerner, Swanson, Crow-Armstrong) pairs with a ground-ball Brewers lineup, making plate discipline and batting order placement hot topics for daily formats. The broader playoff movements include Mariners’ Bryan Woo and Blue Jays’ Bo Bichette, framing the surrounding ALDS chatter around rest and bullpen depth.

Overall, expect a tactical game where rests, bullpen readiness, and strong defensive plays drive fantasy value more than raw power alone. The Brewers’ dynamic up-the-middle trio and Peralta’s readiness could tip timing in Milwaukee’s favor, while Chicago’s power and defense offer counter-punch threats as rotation and roster machinations unfold.